Neonatal Blood Loss

Purpose of Review Provide the reader with an understanding of the causes, diagnostic approach and management of neonatal blood loss, as well as recommendations for acute neonatal transfusion practices. Recent Findings Recognition of neonatal blood loss has improved with increased awareness and advances in diagnostic tools, including rapid diagnostic tools that identify fetal blood in suspected bleeding from vasa previa - as well as rapid hemoglobin and acid/base measurements with bedside blood-gas/ABG analyzers. However, clinical guidelines and recommendations for the management of neonatal blood loss remain scarce, largely due to limited high-quality randomized controlled trials in neonates. In addition, standardized protocols for massive transfusion in neonates are largely lacking, highlighting an important gap in current neonatal care. Summary Neonatal blood loss can result from a wide range of perinatal, obstetric and internal bleeding causes. Early recognition is essential to prevent morbidity and mortality. This review gives an overview of current knowledge regarding evaluation and management of neonatal blood loss while highlighting recent developments in diagnostic strategies and transfusion practices.