A neonate with polycythemia may experience a blood hyperviscosity which may have a number of complications.
Patient selection: neonatal polycythemia
Complications include:
(1) necrotizing enterocolitis and other gastrointestinal problems
(2) neurologic deficits including fine motor, gross motor and speech problems
Partial plasma exchange:
(1) may reduce neurologic deficits
(2) may be associated with increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis
