Platelet Transfusion Trial in Neonatal Thrombocytopenia

Investigators from multiple institutions conducted a randomized trial to assess clinical effects of a low or high threshold for platelet transfusions in premature infants with severe thrombocytopenia. Study participants were neonates born at <34 weeks’ gestation with platelet counts <50,000 per mm³ who were cared for at centers in Ireland, the United Kingdom, or the Netherlands. At enrollment, participating infants were randomized to receive platelet transfusions when their platelet counts were <50,000 per mm³ (high-threshold group) or <25,000 per mm³ (low-threshold group), as needed for surgery or invasive procedures, or because of a severe bleeding episode. Study participants were followed up for 28 days after enrollment. The primary study outcome was a composite of death or a major bleeding episode during the 28-day study period. …