anemia due to prematurity of infantSolutionThe new red blood

anemia due to prematurity of infant

Solution

The new red blood cells are produced by erythropoietin (EPO) in regular individuals when the old RECs are broken. In case of premature babies, the RBC production is reduced due to the reduced concentration of EPO. This may result in mild or severe anemia and it is called as anemia of prematurity (AOP).

Severe anemia may cause issues in premature babies since the oxygen transport mechanism is greatly disturbed. To treat this, the babies are administered with EPO till they reach 36 weeks of gestation. After which the babies regain their regular cycle of RBC production and break down.