Abstract
Objective Vitamin E deficiency in premature infants has been associated with hemolytic anemia.
Its incidence decreased after the supplementation of preterm formulas and parenteral
nutrition with vitamin E. Despite this, some infants still develop hemolytic anemia
and receive vitamin E.
Study Design Retrospective analysis of 70 infants admitted to a level IV intensive care unit and
who developed hemolytic anemia and were treated with vitamin E. Infants were classified
into two groups based on whether or not they responded to vitamin E therapy. Statistical
methods included the use of descriptive statistics and marginal logistic regression
models.
Results Low hematocrit and reticulocytosis before vitamin E administration were associated
with adequate response to treatment. Thrombocytosis, iron treatment (duration and
dose), gestational age, birth weight, and type of feedings were not. Infants who received
a short duration of parenteral nutrition and were on oxygen responded to vitamin E
therapy. Infants with a hematocrit ≤ 26% and reticulocyte of 36.1% were more likely
to respond to vitamin E.
Conclusion Although formulas and parenteral nutrition are supplemented with vitamin E; some
preterm infants may still develop hemolytic anemia. Those with anemia, reticulocytosis,
and oxygen requirement may benefit from additional vitamin E.
Keywords
vitamin E - preterm infants - hemolytic anemia - preterm anemia
