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Review Article| Volume 29, ISSUE 2, P283-294, June 2002

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Iron status and the treatment of the anemia of prematurity

      Anemia of prematurity is a multifactorial anemia associated with relatively low plasma erythropoietin levels and insufficient erythropoiesis. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) is used to treat anemia in premature infants. Because ensuring adequate iron delivery is critical to the success of rhEPO therapy in anemic adults, it is likely critical to the success of rhEPO in the anemia of prematurity. Results from the clinical trials of rhEPO in prematurity have shown decreased erythrocyte transfusion numbers, but not complete elimination of transfusions in most infants. The dosage, route of administration, and timing of rhEPO therapy in prematurity remain under study. In addition, the optimal dosage, route of administration, and timing of iron supplementation necessary to accompany rhEPO therapy remain under investigation.
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