Neonatal polycythemia, relatively common disorder, defined as a venous hematocrit (Hct) level of 65%. Hyperviscosity and its associated complications are primary concerns related to polycythemia. The incidence of polycythemia is 1.5% to 4% of all live births. The incidence is higher among small for gestational age (SGA) and large for gestational age (LGA) infants.
The current article describes the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of neonatal polycythemia . An increase in blood viscosity leads to impairment of tissue oxygenation and perfusion and tendency to form microthrombi.It may cause significant damage if these events occur in the cerebral cortex, kidneys and adrenal glands. Hence this condition requires urgent diagnosis and prompt management. Infants of mothers with diabetes have an incidence of more than 40 % and those born to mothers with gestational…
