Hyperviscosity - newborn
Definition
Hyperviscosity of the newborn is the slowing and blockage of blood flow that results when there are too many red blood cells in an infant's blood.
Alternative Names
Neonatal polycythemiaCauses
Hyperviscosity can occur when the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in the infant's blood is greater than 65%. This may result from various conditions that develop before birth, such as:
- Birth defects
- Delay in clamping the umbilical cord
- Inherited diseases
- Not enough oxygen reaching body tissues (hypoxia)
The extra RBCs block the flow of blood in the smallest blood vessels. This leads to tissue death from lack of oxygen. This blocked blood flow can affect all organs, including the kidneys, lungs, and brain.
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