[Post-transfusion hemolysis in premature infants. Apropos of 8 cases of post-transfusion hemolysis in premature infants].

Accidents related to blood transfusion have become rare in neonates, due to the application of very strict rules. The 8 reported cases of post-transfusion hemolysis occurred in prematures less than 32 weeks gestational age. Signs consisted of hemoglobinuria and/or severe jaundice. In some patients exchange-transfusion had to be performed. Immuno-hematologic, bacteriologic and technical investigations did not show the etiology of these accidents. No similar clinical reports were found in the literature. Some authors suggest a mechanical origin.