“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Anaemia of prematurity refers to a type of anaemia that occurs in premature infants. Premature infants are those born before 37 weeks of gestation, and their red blood cells may not have fully developed before birth. In addition, premature infants often undergo blood sampling for various laboratory tests, and this can contribute to the development of anaemia.
Anaemia of prematurity is characterized by low levels of red blood cells and a decreased concentration of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen). This can result in symptoms such as pale skin, fatigue, and a rapid heart rate. If left untreated, anaemia of prematurity can lead to more severe complications, such as heart failure, brain damage, or even death.
The treatment of anaemia of prematurity may involve blood transfusions, which provide the infant with healthy red blood cells. However, blood transfusions have their own risks and complications, such as infection, transfusion reactions, and iron overload. To avoid the need for transfusions, premature infants may also receive erythropoietin (a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells), iron supplements, or a combination of both.
Prevention of anaemia of prematurity involves optimizing the care of premature infants, including minimizing the need for blood sampling, providing proper nutrition and iron supplementation, and managing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the development of anaemia.