Persistent intestinal bleeding due to severe CMV-related thrombocytopenia in a preterm newborn

J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 May;31(9):1246-1249. doi: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1312331. Epub 2017 Apr 11.

Abstract

The optimal threshold for neonatal platelet transfusions in sick newborns is still uncertain. We report a congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in a premature neonate with severe thrombocytopenia who subsequently presented with necrotizing enterocolitis and intestinal bleeding. The baby recovered after platelet transfusions were discontinued and the therapy was switched from intravenous ganciclovir to oral valganciclovir. We discuss both measures, speculating on the key role of platelet transfusions.

Keywords: Cytomegalovirus; congenital infection; intestinal bleeding; newborn; thrombocytopenia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage
  • Cesarean Section
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / complications*
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / congenital*
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / drug therapy
  • Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / complications
  • Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / therapy
  • Female
  • Ganciclovir / administration & dosage
  • Ganciclovir / analogs & derivatives
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature*
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / therapy
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / virology*
  • Platelet Transfusion
  • Thrombocytopenia / therapy
  • Thrombocytopenia / virology*
  • Valganciclovir

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Valganciclovir
  • Ganciclovir