Infantile Pyknocytosis: An Uncommon Cause of Newborn Hemolytic Anemia

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2020 May;42(4):e251-e253. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000001461.

Abstract

Infantile pyknocytosis is a rare cause of neonatal hemolytic anemia, which presents in the first few weeks of life. We report a classic case of infantile pyknocytosis that presented to our institution with rebound hyperbilirubinemia after receiving phototherapy. The infant was found to have a hemoglobin of 5.8 g/dL, requiring a total of 15 mL/kg of red blood cells (in 2 separate transfusions) before discharge. The diagnosis was ultimately made by a review of the peripheral blood smear. We review the literature and suggest pediatricians consider infantile pyknocytosis on their differential when hemolytic anemia presents in the newborn period.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Hemolytic* / blood
  • Anemia, Hemolytic* / therapy
  • Anemia, Neonatal* / blood
  • Anemia, Neonatal* / therapy
  • Erythrocyte Transfusion*
  • Female
  • Hemoglobins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Phototherapy*

Substances

  • Hemoglobins