Large fetomaternal hemorrhage: clinical presentation and outcome

AIM: To evaluate the incidence and outcome of all neonates with demonstrated fetomaternal hemorrhages > or = 20 ml and to assess possible predictors of large fetomaternal hemorrhage and outcome. METHODS: Retrospective data analysis 1987-2000. Clinical data included antenatal events, method of delivery, condition at birth, hematology results, treatment and outcome. RESULTS: Sixteen infants were identified and treated for fetomaternal hemorrhage. Adverse outcome occurred in five infants (31%). Outcome was predicted by postnatal presentation and initial hemoglobin. CONCLUSION: Adverse outcome amongst neonates with large fetomaternal hemorrhage is high. Outcome is better predicted by initial hemoglobin than volume of hemorrhage as per the Kleihauer test.