Risk factors for periventricular leukomalacia.

Objective: To identify risk factors implicated in the development of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) and to evaluate the possible association between PVL with neonatal morbidity.

Design: Retrospective case control study.

Setting: Medical records of neonates admitted to a University Hospital between January 2000 and December 2005.

Use of recombinant erythropoietin for the management of severe hemolytic disease of the newborn of a K0 phenotype mother.

Very few people do not express any Kell antigens on their red blood cells (K0 phenotype). They can be immunized by transfusion or pregnancy and develop antibodies against Kell system antigens. These maternal antibodies can cause severe hemolytic disease of the fetus/newborn, as a result of the suppression of erythropoiesis and hemolysis.

Interleukin-6 in preterm premature rupture of membranes as an indicator of neonatal outcome.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) can be used as markers of adverse outcome in preterm neonates born after preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Methods: This study involved 109 preterm neonates and their mothers. The PPROM group consisted of 58 neonates who were born after PPROM, and the control group consisted of 51 neonates.

Comparative randomized study: administration of natural and synthetic surfactant to premature newborns with respiratory distress syndrome.

Background: The respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature newborns has been etiologically correlated to immature lungs and specifically with surfactant deficiency. Exogenous administration of surfactant is nowadays considered to be the treatment of choice. In this paper we attempt a comparison of clinical results from the administration of natural Alveofact and synthetic Exosurf surfactants in premature newborns with respiratory distress syndrome.