Exchange transfusion safety and outcomes in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

Management of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia: Shedding Light on the American Academy of Pediatrics 2022 Clinical Practice Guideline Revision

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common conditions managed by pediatricians. Although many infants are affected, most will experience complete resolution without complication. Acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus are rare yet debilitating sequelae of severe hyperbilirubinemia that can be avoided through careful monitoring and treatment with phototherapy. Appropriate management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia must balance the risks of these severe conditions with the effects of overtreatment. Released in 2022, the American Academy of Pediatrics revised the clinical practice guideline for the management of hyperbilirubinemia, which aims to provide that balance through updates to the previous guideline. This article will provide the reader with (1) an evidence-based harm and benefit analysis of the guideline, (2) an overview of key changes and clarifications made in the new guideline, and (3) a practical summary of guideline updates. [Pediatr Ann. 2024;53(6):e208-e216.].

Unbound Bilirubin and Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy in Infants Born Late Preterm and Term with Significant Hyperbilirubinemia

OBJECTIVE

To compare the association of unbound bilirubin (UB), total serum bilirubin (TSB), and bilirubin:albumin molar ratio (BAMR) with acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE), as assessed by bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND) score, in infants with significant hyperbilirubinemia (TSB ≥20 mg/dL or underwent exchange transfusion).

STUDY DESIGN

In this prospective cohort study, infants ≥34 weeks of gestational age with significant hyperbilirubinemia during the first 2 postnatal weeks were eligible, unless they had craniofacial malformations, chromosomal disorders, TORCH (toxoplasmosis, other infections, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex) infections, surgery, or a family history of congenital deafness. TSB, serum albumin, and UB were measured at hospital admission using the colorimetric, bromocresol green, and modified peroxidase method, respectively. Infants were evaluated on admission for ABE using a standardized neurologic examination and assigned a BIND score by trained physicians. Infants with a total BIND score of 0 were deemed to not have ABE, whereas those with a score ≥1 were deemed to have ABE.

RESULTS

A total of 151 infants were studied, among whom 37 (24.5%) had ABE. Of these, 19 had mild ABE (BIND score 1-3) and 18 had moderate-to-severe ABE (BIND score 4-9). On logistic regression, UB, but not TSB or BAMR, was associated with ABE (aOR 1.64; 95% CI 1.17-2.3). On ordered logistic regression, UB, but not TSB or BAMR, was associated with severity of ABE (aOR 1.76; 95% CI 1.28-2.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings of the association between UB and ABE indicate that BIND scoring may be useful for evaluation of ABE in infants ≥34 weeks of gestational age.

Three or four doses of intravenous immunoglobulin G treatment for isoimmune hemolytic disease: A case series and literature review

BACKGROUND

Neonates affected by isoimmune hemolytic disease (HDN) are at risk of developing severe hyperbilirubinemia. Studies show that increasing levels of bilirubin impact neonatal neurodevelopment. To avoid complications associated with exchange transfusion, intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) is used to treat hyperbilirubinemia. We included all infants who received more than two doses of IVIG treatment for isoimmune hemolytic disease. We analyzed the incidence of side effects associated with IVIG treatment and the rate of exchange transfusion.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review performed between October 2011-October 2022 at East Carolina University Health identified neonates who received more than two doses IVIG for HDN. Neonates of postmenstrual age greater than 28 days old, receiving less than three doses of IVIG or received IVIG for other indications were excluded. The occurrences of adverse events, demographics and use of other medical therapies were reviewed.

RESULTS

Eleven neonates were included in the case series. Most common cause of severe hyperbilirubinemia was attributed to ABO incompatibility. Six patients (54%) received three doses of IVIG, and five patients (45%) received four doses of IVIG with bilirubin levels decreasing below exchange transfusion. No treatment exceeding four doses of IVIG was reported, nor adverse events during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of neonates with HDN, bilirubin levels decreased after treatment with multiple doses of IVIG. Future research on recommendations of optimal total number doses of IVIG to reduce the risk for exchange transfusion.

Intravenous immunoglobulin G therapy for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

BACKGROUND

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NHb) results from increased total serum bilirubin and is a common reason for admission and readmission amongst newborn infants born in North America. The use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy for treating NHb has been widely debated, and the current incidence of NHb and its therapies remain unknown.

METHODS

Using national and provincial databases, a population-based retrospective cohort study of infants born in Ontario from April 2014 to March 2018 was conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 533,084 infants born in Ontario at ≥35 weeks gestation, 29,756 (5.6%) presented with NHb. Among these infants, 80.1-88.2% received phototherapy, 1.1-2.0% received IVIG therapy and 0.1-0.2% received exchange transfusion (ET) over the study period. Although phototherapy was administered (83.0%) for NHb, its use decreased from 2014 to 2018 (88.2-80.1%) (P < 0.01). Similarly, the incidence of IVIG therapy increased from 71 to 156 infants (1.1-2.0%) (P < 0.01) and a small change in the incidence of ET (0.2-0.1%) was noted.

CONCLUSION

IVIG therapy is increasingly being used in Ontario despite limited studies evaluating its use. The results of this study could inform treatment and management protocols for NHb.

IMPACTS

Clinically significant neonatal hyperbilirubinemia still occurs in Ontario, with an increasing number of infants receiving Intravenous Immunoglobulin G (IVIG) therapy. IVIG continues to be used at increasing rates despite inconclusive evidence to recommend its use. This study highlights the necessity of a future prospective study to better determine the effectiveness of IVIG use in treating neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, especially given the recent shortage in IVIG supply in Ontario. The results of this study could inform treatment and management protocols for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn: rapid review of postnatal care and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Advances in postnatal care for hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) have occurred over the past decades, but little is known regarding the frequency of postnatal treatment and the clinical outcomes of affected neonates. Most studies reporting on HDFN originate from high-income countries or relatively large centers, but important differences between centers and countries may exist due to differences in prevalence and available treatment options. We therefore aimed to evaluate the postnatal treatment landscape and clinical outcomes in neonates with Rhesus factor D (Rh(D))- and/or K-mediated HDFN and to provide recommendations for future research.

METHODS

We conducted a rapid literature review of case reports and series, observational retrospective and prospective cohort studies, and trials describing pregnancies or children affected by Rh(D)- or K-mediated HDFN published between 2005 and 2021. Information relevant to the treatment of HDFN and clinical outcomes was extracted. Medline, ClinicalTrials.gov and EMBASE were searched for relevant studies by two independent reviewers through title/abstract and full-text screening. Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed methodological quality of included studies.

RESULTS

Forty-three studies reporting postnatal data were included. The median frequency of exchange transfusions was 6.0% [interquartile range (IQR): 0.0-20.0] in K-mediated HDFN and 26.5% [IQR: 18.0-42.9] in Rh(D)-mediated HDFN. The median use of simple red blood cell transfusions in K-mediated HDFN was 50.0% [IQR: 25.0-56.0] and 60.0% [IQR: 20.0-72.0] in Rh(D)-mediated HDFN. Large differences in transfusion rates were found between centers. Neonatal mortality amongst cases treated with intrauterine transfusion(s) was 1.2% [IQR: 0-4.4]. Guidelines and thresholds for exchange transfusions and simple RBC transfusions were reported in 50% of studies.

CONCLUSION

Most included studies were from middle- to high-income countries. No studies with a higher level of evidence from centers in low-income countries were available. We noted a shortage and inconsistency in the reporting of relevant data and provide recommendations for future reports. Although large variations between studies was found and information was often missing, analysis showed that the postnatal burden of HDFN, including need for neonatal interventions, remains high.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021234940. Available from:  https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021234940 .

Treatment Outcome of Jaundice and Its Associated Factors Among Neonates Treated in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Comprehensive and Specialized Hospitals of Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Region, Ethiopia 2022

Introduction

Jaundice is a common problem that affects up to 50-60% of full-term babies and 80% of preterm babies. It is a benign condition, but sometimes it can cause profound complications and eventually death. Identifying the treatment outcome of jaundice and the factors affecting it is crucial to preventing the death associated with it.

Objective

To determine the treatment outcome of jaundice and its associated factors among neonates treated in neonatal intensive care unit of comprehensive and specialized hospitals of SNNPR, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

An institution-based retrospective follow up study was conducted from April 2018 to April 2022. The data was checked for completeness and then entered into Epi-data version 4.6 and exported to STATA version 17. The results were presented in frequencies and percentages for categorical variables as well as mean and median for continuous variables. A binary logistic regression model was used to estimate the effect of an independent variable and the outcome variable.

Results

A total of 423 charts were reviewed, and 416 (98%) were included in the final analysis. Almost 91.3% (95% CI: 88.2, 93.7) of neonates had improved. Factors significantly associated with the treatment outcome were: residence (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.8); origin of admission (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.8); gestational age (AOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.1, 0.8); and total serum bilirubin level (AOR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.9).

Conclusion and Recommendation

Improvement was lower compared to other low and middle-income countries; more emphasis should be given to improving treatment outcomes in hospitals.

History and current standard of postnatal management in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn

Since the discovery of the Rh blood group system in 1940, a greater understanding of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) was gained. In the years thereafter, researchers and clinicians came to the current understanding that fetal and neonatal red blood cells (RBC) are hemolyzed by maternal alloantibodies directed against RBC antigens potentially leading to severe disease. Preventative measures, such as Rhesus(D) immunoprophylaxis (RhIG), have greatly decreased the prevalence of Rh(D)-mediated HDFN, although a gap between high-income countries and middle- to low-income countries was created largely due to a lack in availability and high costs of RhIG. Other important developments in the past decades have improved the identification, monitoring, and care of pregnancies, fetuses, and neonates with HDFN. Prenatally, fetal anemia may occur and intrauterine transfusions may be needed. Postnatally, pediatricians should be aware of the (antenatally determined) risk of hemolysis in RBC alloimmunization and should provide treatment for hyperbilirubinemia in the early phase and monitor for anemia in the late phase of the disease. Through this review, we aim to provide an overview of important historic events and to provide hands-on guidelines for the delivery and postnatal management of neonates with HDFN. Secondarily, we aim to describe recent scientific findings and evidence gaps.

CONCLUSION

 Multiple developments have improved the identification, monitoring, and care of pregnancies and neonates with HDFN throughout the centuries. Pediatricians should be aware of the (antenatally determined) risk of hemolysis in RBC alloimmunization and should provide treatment for hyperbilirubinemia in the early phase and monitor for late anemia in the late phase of the disease. Future studies should be set in an international setting and ultimately aim to eradicate HDFN on a global scale.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Developments have led to a greater understanding of the pathophysiology, an improved serological identification and monitoring of at-risk cases and the current pre- and postnatal treatment.

WHAT IS NEW

• This review provides the pediatrician with hands-on guidelines for the delivery and postnatal management of neonates with HDFN. • Future studies should be set in an international setting with the ultimate aim of eradicating HDFN.

[Interpretation of the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for the management of hyperbilirubinemia in newborn infants]

The American Academy of Pediatrics updated the guidelines for the management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infants with a gestational age of ≥35 weeks in September 2022. Based on the evidence over the past 18 years, the guidelines are updated from the aspects of the prevention, risk assessment, intervention, and follow-up of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infants with a gestational age of ≥35 weeks. This article gives an interpretation of the key points in the guidelines, so as to safely reduce the risk of bilirubin encephalopathy and unnecessary intervention.

Management challenges in the treatment of severe hyperbilirubinemia in low- and middle-income countries: Encouraging advancements, remaining gaps, and future opportunities

Neonatal jaundice (NJ) is common in newborn infants. Severe NJ (SNJ) has potentially negative neurological sequelae that are largely preventable in high resource settings if timely diagnosis and treatment are provided. Advancements in NJ care in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) have been made over recent years, especially with respect to an emphasis on parental education about the disease and technological advancements for improved diagnosis and treatment. Challenges remain, however, due to lack of routine screening for SNJ risk factors, fragmented medical infrastructure, and lack of culturally appropriate and regionally specific treatment guidelines. This article highlights both encouraging advancements in NJ care as well as remaining gaps. Opportunities are identified for future work in eliminating the gaps in NJ care and preventing death and disability related to SNJ around the globe.

Role of ursodeoxycholic acid in neonatal indirect hyperbilirubinemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Neonatal jaundice is a transitional phenomenon affecting three out of five full-term newborns globally. Ursodeoxycholic acid could be beneficial in neonatal jaundice needing phototherapy. 

Methods

We searched PubMed, EBSCO, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library up to August 21^st, 2021, for articles to be reviewed. Meta-analysis using random-effects model was performed.

Results

Eight studies involving 1116 neonates were chosen in this review; however, only five studies were included for meta-analysis. Phototherapy duration was significantly lower in the interventional group with high heterogeneities. Subgroup analysis of the phototherapy duration based on the risk of bias resulted in a shorter duration (mean difference (MD) = –17.82; 95% CI = –20.17 to –15.47; p =  < 0.001) with low heterogeneity in the treatment group. Secondary outcome focusing on mean total serum bilirubin showed a lower mean total serum bilirubin in 48 h post-treatment (MD = –0.43; 95% CI = –0.64 to –0.22; p =  < 0.0001) with low heterogeneities in Asian countries.”

Conclusions

Ursodeoxycholic acid might be considered as a novel adjuvant therapy in neonatal indirect hyperbilirubinemia to shorten the phototherapy duration and lower the mean total serum bilirubin.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13052-022-01372-w.

Early indicators of neonatal-onset hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura

Background

Neonatal‐onset hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura (hTTP) is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity. It begins with jaundice, similar to infants with ABO incompatibility.

Objective

To explore early indicators of neonatal‐onset hTTP.

Methods

This study was a retrospective case series of newborns with hTTP and ABO incompatibility. We compared the clinical characteristics and laboratory test results in these two groups.

Results

This study included four hTTP patients and 20 ABO‐incompatible newborns. All patients manifested disease during the neonatal period. There were equal numbers of males and females in each group. hTTP newborns showed earlier (median difference, 57.0 h; 95% confidence interval [CI], 24.0–65.0) and more severe hyperbilirubinemia (mean difference, 8.0 mg/dl; 95% CI, 3.8–12.1) than ABO‐incompatible newborns. In hTTP newborns, anemia was more common within 7 days after birth than in ABO‐incompatible newborns (odds ratio, 25.4; 95% CI, 1.2–551.6), and platelet counts were lower than in ABO‐incompatible newborns (17 ± 12 × 10⁹/L vs. 291 ± 76 × 10⁹/L). The levels of serum creatinine (median difference, 51.8 μmol/L; 95% CI, 16.0–109.4) and blood urea nitrogen (median difference, 5.7 mmol/L; 95% CI, 2.8–38.7) were higher in hTTP newborns than in ABO‐incompatible newborns. There were no significant differences in white blood cell counts, C‐reactive protein, alanine aminotransferase, or albumin levels.

Conclusions

Severe jaundice soon after birth, early anemia, and severe thrombocytopenia were more common in newborns with hTTP than ABO incompatibility. These are distinguishing early features of hTTP.

Understanding the risk factors for adverse events during exchange transfusion in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia using explainable artificial intelligence

Objective

To understand the risk factors associated with adverse events during exchange transfusion (ET) in severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Study design

We conducted a retrospective study of infants with hyperbilirubinemia who underwent ET within 30 days of birth from 2015 to 2020 in a children’s hospital. Both traditional statistical analysis and state-of-the-art explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) were used to identify the risk factors.

Results

A total of 188 ET cases were included; 7 major adverse events, including hyperglycemia (86.2%), top-up transfusion after ET (50.5%), hypocalcemia (42.6%), hyponatremia (42.6%), thrombocytopenia (38.3%), metabolic acidosis (25.5%), and hypokalemia (25.5%), and their risk factors were identified. Some novel and interesting findings were identified by XAI.

Conclusions

XAI not only achieved better performance in predicting adverse events during ET but also helped clinicians to more deeply understand nonlinear relationships and generate actionable knowledge for practice.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-022-03615-5.

Use of blood and its components in the treatment of anaemia in children

Blood transfusion is a well-established treatment for anaemia. Herein, blood and its components are transfused to replenish circulating blood volume, maintain the oxygen capacity of the blood and normalise the function of the coagulation system. Anaemia treatment by blood transfusions is a great challenge, especially with reference to paediatric patients. Blood is irreplaceable in a life-threatening situation, but it has its own side effects, just like all applied pharmacological products. Hence, it is extremely important to carefully select donors and utilise blood components according to the patient’s individual needs. Children represent a group that requires specific criteria to be met, mainly because of the fact that their physiological and haematological systems differ from those of adults. The most common types of anaemia seen in children are deficiency anaemias such as iron-deficiency anaemia, while less common are vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia or folate deficiency anaemia. Secondary anaemia is also relatively frequent in chronic diseases, among others, immunological or infectious, as well as renal, liver, endocrine and neoplastic diseases. Anaemia due to blood loss is also included in this group. Furthermore, some anaemias, such as aplastic anaemia (due to impaired erythrocyte production) and haemolytic anaemia (due to excessive destruction of red blood cells) may be congenital or acquired. Before deciding to implement blood therapy, the patient’s clinical condition or the different haematological, biochemical and immunological parameters at different stages of life should be considered. Since each transfusion may result in a variety of post-transfusion reactions, immunisation or transmission of infectious diseases, the decision to transfuse blood or blood components should be taken only when the patient cannot be treated effectively by any other means and the expected benefits of the transfusion outweigh the risks associated with possible complications. Considering the recipients’ low blood volume, low metabolic efficiency, higher haematocrit levels than in adults and immature immune system, products for these patients should be prepared in a special way. These components must ensure minimal risk of metabolic and haemostatic disorders. The collection of these products, as well as their preparation, storage and transfusion, should be carried out in accordance with current legislation.

Outcome Analysis of Severe Hyperbilirubinemia in Neonates Undergoing Exchange Transfusion

OBJECTIVE

Severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia can cause neurological disability or mortality if not effectively managed. Exchange transfusion (ET) is an efficient treatment to prevent bilirubin neurotoxicity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes in severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia with ET and to identify the potential risk factors for poor outcomes.

METHODS

Newborns of ≥28 weeks of gestational age with severe hyperbilirubinemia who underwent ET from January 2015 to August 2019 were included. Demographic data were recorded and analyzed according to follow-up outcomes at 12 months of corrected age. Poor outcomes were defined as death due to bilirubin encephalopathy or survival with at least one of the following complications: cerebral palsy, psychomotor retardation (psychomotor developmental index < 70), mental retardation (mental developmental index < 70), or hearing impairment.

RESULTS

A total of 524 infants were eligible for recruitment to the study, and 62 infants were lost to follow-up. The outcome data from 462 infants were used for grouping analysis, of which 398 cases (86.1%) had normal outcomes and 64 cases (13.9%) suffered poor outcomes. Bivariate logistic regression analysis showed that peak total serum bilirubin (TSB) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.011, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.008-1.015, p = 0.000) and sepsis (OR = 4.352, 95% CI = 2.013-9.409, p < 0.001) were associated with poor outcomes of hyperbilirubinemia. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis showed that peak TSB ≥452.9 µmol/L could predict poor outcomes of severe hyperbilirubinemia.

CONCLUSION

Peak TSB and sepsis were associated with poor outcomes in infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia, and peak TSB ≥452.9 µmol/L could predict poor outcomes.

Trends and Resource Utilization for Neonatal Jaundice Hospitalizations in the United States

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the trends in hospitalization for neonatal jaundice and its management with phototherapy and exchange transfusion in the United States from 2006 through 2016.

METHODS

Repeated, cross-sectional analysis of the 2006 to 2016 editions of the Kids' Inpatient Database. All neonatal hospitalizations with an International Classification of Diseases, 9th or 10th Revision, Clinical Modification code for jaundice and admitted at age ≤28 days were included. The outcome measures were changes in the diagnosis of jaundice (expressed as a proportion) and its management over the years.

RESULTS

Among 16 094 653 neonatal hospitalizations from 2006 to 2016, 20.5% were diagnosed with jaundice. While the incidence of jaundice remained stable over the years, 20.9% to 20.5% (P = .1), the proportion with jaundice who received phototherapy increased from 22.5% to 27.0% (P < .0001) between 2006 and 2016. There was no significant change in the exchange transfusion rate per year among neonatal hospitalizations with jaundice.

CONCLUSIONS

While the proportion of newborns with jaundice remained stable between 2006 and 2016, the use of phototherapy significantly increased with no significant change in exchange transfusion rate. The impact of these changes on the prevention of acute bilirubin encephalopathy needs further examination in future studies.

Efficacy of Circumferential Intensive Phototherapy in Treating Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

The present study was aimed at developing a circumferential phototherapy unit using 3M reflective materials in the double-sided phototherapy unit and investigating its efficacy in treating neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

STUDY DESIGN

Forty-two infants with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia were selected from our hospital; they were randomly divided into control (n = 21) and experimental groups (n = 21). The experimental group was treated with the circumferential phototherapy unit, while the control group was treated with an ordinary phototherapy unit.

RESULTS

No significant differences were noted between the two groups in the levels of transcutaneous bilirubin before phototherapy (p > 0.05). After 12 hours of phototherapy, the value of transcutaneous bilirubin decreased significantly in the experimental group compared with that of the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the two groups did not exhibit any significant difference in the side effects (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that the circumferential phototherapy unit was more effective than the ordinary phototherapy unit in treating neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

KEY POINTS

· A circumferential phototherapy unit was developed using 3M reflective materials.. · The circumferential phototherapy unit was more effective than the ordinary.. · The two groups did not exhibit any significant difference in the side effects..

Clinical Profile and Outcome Following Exchange Transfusion for Neonatal Jaundice in a Tertiary Care Centre

INTRODUCTION

Phototherapy has reduced the need for exchange transfusion (ET) to manage jaundiced neonates. Hence there are concerns about increased risk of complication due to lack of opportunity to sustain skills in performing ET. We studied the complications and treatment outcomes of neonates treated for jaundice with ET.

METHODOLOGY

A retrospective observational study was conducted from June 2013 to June 2020 in a tertiary care hospital in India. All neonates treated with ET for jaundice were included.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight neonates underwent 31 ET during the study period. Their mean gestational age and birth weight were 37 weeks and 3200 g, respectively. Predisposing factor for jaundice observed were Coomb's positive status (11), hepatosplenomegaly suggesting hemolysis (3), cephalhematoma (2) and birth asphyxia (1). Abnormal neurological status before ET was seen in seven neonates. Adverse clinical events that happened during or within 8 h after ET were desaturation (4), tachycardia (3), tachypnea (2), bradycardia (2), shock (2) and temperature instability (2). One neonate developed acute kidney injury after ET and required peritoneal dialysis. Abnormal lab parameters observed during or within 8 h after ET were hypocalcemia (20), anemia (8), hypokalemia (7), hypernatremia (3), thrombocytopenia (3) and hyperkalemia (2). Post ET sepsis was seen in five neonates: two had only blood culture positive sepsis, two had bone and joint infection and one had liver abscess.

CONCLUSION

The neonates undergoing ET are at high risk of developing complications which may be life threatening. Hence careful monitoring during the procedure is needed.

The effect of exchange transfusion on mortality in neonatal sepsis: a meta-analysis

Although antimicrobials are the cornerstone of neonatal sepsis management, adjunctive therapies are required to improve outcomes. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of exchange transfusion (ET) on mortality (primary outcome) in neonatal sepsis, as well as on immunoglobulin, complement and neutrophil levels and assess its complications (secondary outcomes). Databases searched include PubMed, NCBI, Google Scholar, CINHAL, Ovid and Scopus. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled observational studies (COSs) and uncontrolled observational studies (UOSs) reporting mortality data from using ET in neonatal sepsis were included. Studies with additional interventions, non-septic ET indications and populations aged > 28 days were excluded. Data extracted include demographics, features of study, sepsis and ET, as well as mortality rates, immunological and laboratory changes and complications. Data was meta-analysed and displayed using forest plots. The meta-analysis of 14 studies (3 RCTs, 11 COSs) revealed a mortality benefit in septic neonates who underwent ET-RR 0.72 (CI 0.61-0.86, p = 0.01) and a significant increase in pooled immunological parameters (immunoglobulin, complement levels) (SMD 1.13, [0.25, 2.02], p = 0.02) and neutrophil levels (SMD 1.07 [0.04, 2.11], p = 0.03) compared to controls. The descriptive analysis of 9 UOSs revealed thrombocytopenia as the most frequently reported complication (n = 48). Moderate-high risk of bias was largely due to inadequate sample sizes and follow-up durations.Conclusion: Currently, the use of ET in neonatal sepsis is not directly recommended due to low certainty of evidence, inadequate power and moderate-high risk of bias and heterogeneity.Trial registration: PROSPERO (CRD42020176629) ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=176629 ) What is Known: • Exchange transfusion is one of the adjunctive methods for treatment of neonatal sepsis. What is New: • The pooled analysis of all studies shows that exchange transfusion has a low certainty of evidence in the context of neonatal mortality. However, at this point, this intervention cannot be refuted or recommended due to heterogeneity of studies and inadequate power.

Stannsoporfin with phototherapy to treat hyperbilirubinemia in newborn hemolytic disease

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tin mesoporphyrin (SnMP) in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia (HB) due to hemolysis.

STUDY DESIGN

This multicenter, placebo-controlled phase 2b study (NCT01887327) randomized newborns (35-42 weeks) with hemolysis started on phototherapy (PT) to placebo (Ctrl), SnMP 3.0 mg/kg, or SnMP 4.5 mg/kg given once IM within 30 min of initiation of PT.

RESULTS

In all, 91 patients were randomized (Ctrl: n = 30; 3 mg/kg SnMP: n = 30; 4.5 mg/kg SnMP: n = 31). At 48 h TSB significantly increased in Ctrl by 17.5% (95% CI 5.6-30.7; p = 0.004) and significantly decreased by -13% (95% CI -21.7 to -3.2; p = 0.013) in the 3.0 mg/kg and by -10.5% (95% CI -19.4 to -0.6; p = 0.041) in the 4.5 mg/kg group. Decreases in SnMP groups were significant (p < 0.0001) vs Ctrl.

CONCLUSION

SnMP with PT significantly reduced TSB by 48 h. SnMP may be useful as a treatment for HB in neonates with hemolysis.

Trends in hospitalizations of newborns with hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus in United States: an epidemiological study

BACKGROUND

Hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common diagnosis in newborn nurseries in United States. Universal pre-discharge bilirubin screening decreased the incidence of extreme hyperbilirubinemia and risk of kernicterus.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to assess temporal population trends of hyperbilirubinemia, kernicterus and usage of phototherapy, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and exchange transfusion.

DESIGN/METHODS

Data from Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP)-the Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) obtained for years 1997-2012. All neonatal discharges with ICD-9 codes for neonatal jaundice (774.2, 774.6), kernicterus (773.4, 774.7) and procedure codes for phototherapy (99.83), IVIG infusion (99.14), exchange transfusion (99.01) were extracted. We compared the trends of diagnosis of hyperbilirubinemia, kernicterus, use of phototherapy, IVIG, and exchange transfusion.

RESULTS

During the study period, the proportion of infants diagnosed with hyperbilirubinemia increased by 65% (9.4% vs. 15.5%; p<.001) in term infants and 34.5% (33.5% vs. 45%; p<.001) in preterm infants, respectively. Rate of kernicterus discharges significantly reduced from 7 to 1.9 per 100,000 newborns. Overall, the number of exchange transfusions has decreased by 67% during study period while phototherapy and IVIG use increased by 83% and 170%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In last two decades, there was a significant decrease in neonatal discharges with a history of exchange transfusion or with a diagnosis of kernicterus. However, there was a significant increase in number of neonates discharged home with a history of phototherapy during birth hospitalization and decreased number of exchange transfusions were observed during the study period. Incremental implementation of universal predischarge bilirubin screening and treatments based on 2004 AAP recommended risk-based strategies might have contributed to timely interventions in infants with significant hyperbilirubinemia.

Hyperbilirubinemia in the Term Infant: Re-evaluating What We Think We Know

This article attempts to highlight contemporary issues relating to term neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and to focus attention on controversial issues and concepts with the potential to effect change in clinical approach. On the one hand, the focus is bilirubin neurotoxicity, which is now known to encompass a wide, diverse spectrum of features. The various aspects of this spectrum are outlined and defined. On the other hand, bilirubin also possesses antioxidant properties. As such, mild hyperbilirubinemia is suggested as actually offering the neonate some protective advantage.

Exchange transfusions in severe Rh-mediated alloimmune haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn: a 20-year overview on the incidence, associated risks and outcome

Background and objectives

Guidelines and indications for exchange transfusion in haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN) have changed drastically in the past decades, causing a decline in exchange transfusion rate. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of exchange transfusions (ETs) in neonates with Rh‐mediated HDFN over the past 20 years at our centre, and report potentially ET‐related complications as well as indicators for bilirubin encephalopathy.

Material and methods

In this observational study, 438 neonates were included with HDFN, born ≥ 35 weeks gestational age at the Leiden University Medical Centre between January 2000 and July 2020. The incidence of ET and procedure‐related complications were assessed in three consecutive time periods determined by changes in guidelines and indications for ET.

Results

The incidence of ET in our centre declined from (104/156) 67% (time period 2000–2005), to (39/181) 22% (2006–2015) and to (10/101) 10% (2015–2020, p < 0·001). The maximum bilirubin levels in neonates after birth increased from 13·6 mg/dL (or 233 μmol/L), to 15·0 mg/dL (257 μmol/L) and to 15·3 mg/dL (263 μmol/L). The incidence of complications associated with the use of ET (including sepsis, haematologic disorders and respiratory failure) remained stable throughout the years, and no neonates died during the study period.

Conclusion

Exchange transfusion incidence declined significantly over the past two decades. Decrease in ET incidence, and concomitant decrease in exposure and expertise, was not associated with an increase in procedure‐related complications.

A single-center experience on exchange transfusion therapy in 123 full-term cases of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in Wuhan

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical experience in application of exchange transfusion therapy (ETT) in the treatment of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

METHODS

The clinical data and examination results of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia full-term cases treated by ETT were analyzed retrospectively, the etiology and risk factors of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia were statistically analyzed, and the statistical characteristics of the children in each etiological group and the incidence of adverse events of ETT were analyzed.

RESULTS

The age of jaundice, peak total bilirubin after phototherapy and ETT in 123 full-term infants were 2.0 (1.0, 3.0) days, 4.0 (2.0, 7.0) days and 4.0 (2.0, 7.0) days, respectively, of which 68 were male and 55 were female. The main pathogeny of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia was blood group incompatibility hemolytic disease of newborn (HDN). Age of ETT, total bilirubin after ETT, gender and BAEP results were different between ABE and non-ABE infants. Weight loss can be used as a predictor of hospitalization length. The major adverse events related to ETT were hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, hyponatremia and thrombocytopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

ETT can rapidly reduce the level of total bilirubin to prevent ABE and play an important role in the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, but the whole process of ETT needs to be closely monitored.

Care of Infants Born to Women with Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Infants of women with diabetes are at risk for specific morbidities including congenital anomalies, abnormalities of fetal growth, neonatal hypoglycemia, electrolyte abnormalities, polycythemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and respiratory distress syndrome. Recent studies have shed light on long-term outcomes of these infants and presented advances in treatment. The purpose of this review is to outline the most common neonatal morbidities affecting infants of women with diabetes, the pathophysiology and prevalence of these conditions, and contemporary approaches to treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent investigative findings have led to advances in treatment approaches for these infants, particularly regarding risks of neonatal hypoglycemia. Optimizing maternal glycemic control during pregnancy is imperative to improving infant outcomes. However, on a population level, maternal diabetes still poses significant risks to the infant. Timely and appropriate treatment of infants of women with diabetes is imperative to decrease short- and long-term morbidity.