Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia.

Abstract

Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) can occur when a mother is immunized against fetal platelet antigens inherited from the father. Early diagnosis and appropriate platelet transfusion therapy are essential to prevent life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage in the thrombocytopenic fetus or neonate. Five major human platelet antigen (HPA) systems are capable of causing this disorder with HPA-1a indicated most frequently. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical aspects, and management of NAIT. We also present our experience with treatment of neonates affected with this disorder.