Thrombocytopenia & Platelet TransfusionsImpact of Thrombocytopenia and Platelet Transfusions on Neonatal Bleeding and Inflammation

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Have a post-menstrual age between 23 and 44 weeks;
2. Have a PLT count <100 x 109/L; and
3. Have a parent/guardian willing to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Are not expected to survive for >5 days by the Attending Neonatologist;
2. Are thought to have a congenital thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction, based on family history or clinical presentation (e.g. congenital malformations, platelet morphology); or
3. Are on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Importantly, patients will be consented when they have a platelet count <100 x 109/L, but they will enter study only when the platelet count falls to <50 x 109/L.