Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy in a neonate: management challenges.
BACKGROUND
Newborns are vulnerable to developing disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) following infections because of immaturity of their coagulation system. This case report highlights the diagnostic and management challenges encountered in neonates with DIC.


RESULTS
The case notes of an eight day old male who presented with a three-day history of fever, convulsion, excessive crying, refusal to suck and intermittent gum bleeding was reviewed. On examination, he had signs of meningeal irritation and a grade 4 machinery murmur maximal at the 2nd left intercostal space. Investigations showed severe thrombocytopenia and deranged coagulation profile. He received intravenous antibiotics as well as three exchange blood transfusions to correct his coagulation profile and improve his clinical condition before discharge. The underlying cause of his condition was presumably an intrauterine infection.


CONCLUSIONS
The survival of neonates with DIC depends on vigorous treatment of the underlying disorders so as to curtail the triggers of blood coagulation as well as replacement of the consumed coagulation factor.
Ugwu
R O
RO
Department of Paediatrics, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. rossaire2003@yahoo.com
Eneh
A U
AU
Nwauche
C A
CA
D001803:Blood Transfusion; D002443:Ceftriaxone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D004211:Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000628:therapy; D005839:Gentamicins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D018805:Sepsis; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D005839:Gentamicins; D002443:Ceftriaxone