Transient pseudothrombocytopenia in a neonate: transmission of a maternal EDTA-dependent anticoagulant

Platelets. 2012;23(5):399-400. doi: 10.3109/09537104.2011.624210. Epub 2011 Oct 11.

Abstract

EDTA-dependent pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) is characterised by a low platelet count caused by autoantibodies in the serum reacting with EDTA-anticoagulated blood. EDTA-dependent PTCP is caused by a factor that retains EDTA anticoagulation activity in the serum. We report here that a neonate from a mother with PTCP presented with transient low platelet counts when EDTA was used as an anticoagulant. To confirm the transmission of a maternal serum factor to the neonate, we examined to add the maternal serum into the normal blood. Platelet count decreased significantly after adding maternal serum. Clumped platelets were also observed in the smears of mixed samples.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Anticoagulants / pharmacology
  • Blood Platelets / metabolism
  • Blood Platelets / pathology
  • Edetic Acid / adverse effects*
  • Edetic Acid / pharmacology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Platelet Aggregation / drug effects*
  • Platelet Count
  • Pregnancy
  • Thrombocytopenia / blood
  • Thrombocytopenia / etiology*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Edetic Acid