Neonatal RBC transfusions: Do benefits outweigh risks?

Preterm neonates represent one of the most transfused categories of patients. Their target hematocrits, however, are mainly based on expert opinion. The risk of transfusions are very high in the smallest preterm baby with a weak immune response, immature antioxidant ability, fragile germinal matrix and impaired cerebral autoregulation, yet red cell transfusions remain the only life saving measure in the baby with symptomatic anemia.