Study of Effects on Haematological Parameters in Neonates Receiving Phototherapy for Neonatal Hyperbilirubinaemia

Abstract

Introduction: Phototherapy though safe, is not free of side effects, the following adverse effects and complications have been noted: increase insensible water loss, loose stools, retinal damage, bronze baby syndrome, gonadal toxicity, impaired maternal infant interaction, hypocalcaemia and skin rash. The combination of hyperbilirubinemia and phototherapy can produce DNA strand breakage and other effects on cellular genetic material. Although most of the studies have documented thrombocytopenia as a result of phototherapy but, few other studies have proven the opposite effect of phototherapy on the platelet count. Objective: To study effect of phototherapy on hematological parameters in neonates. Materials and methods: The present descriptive observational study was carried out at department of Paediatrics, MIMSR Medical College and YCRH Latur, Maharashtra during the study period from January to December 2021. Results:We included total 44 term neonates receiving phototherapy in our study. Out of 44, majority i.e. 27(61.4%) were from 6-10 days and 17(38.6%) were from 1-5 days age group.52.3% were females and 47.7% were male neonates. Incidence of anemia after phototherapy in our study was 20.5%. Incidence of thrombocytopenia after phototherapy in our study was 36.4%. Incidence of leucocytosis after phototherapy in our study was 25%. Incidence of reticulocytosis after phototherapy in our study was 18.2%. Incidence of Raised Hematocrit after phototherapy in our study was 27.3%.Conclusion: Incidence of anemia after phototherapy in our study was 20.5%, incidence of thrombocytopenia was 36.4%, incidence of leucocytosis was 25%, incidence of reticulocytosis was 18.2% and incidence of Raised Hematocrit was 27.3%.