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Am J Perinatol 2009; 26(1): 007-011
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1090588
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Elevated Iron Indices in Preterm Infants: Association with Male Gender

E. J. Molloy1 , 2 , A. El-Khuffash1 , A. Bieda3 , M. M. Jelinek3 , J. Baley3
  • 1Department of Paediatrics, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
  • 2School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • 3Division of Neonatology, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 November 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Elevated iron indices may be underrecognized in preterm infants. Sixty growing, stable preterm infants < 1500 g studied had elevated iron indices, which was especially elevated in male infants. Careful evaluation of iron indices is essential to prevent potential organ injury and unnecessary iron supplementation.

KEYWORDS

Ferritin - TIBC - percent binding - red cell transfusion - very low-birth-weight infant

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E. J Molloy

Consultant Neonatologist, National Maternity Hospital

Holles St., Dublin 2, Ireland

Email: elesean@hotmail.com