Question
After birth, the baby’s lips turned purple when crying, and the condition improved after oxygen therapy. The doctor diagnosed it as polycythemia and began treatment. During the treatment process, the level of myocardial enzymes increased. Will polycythemia cause any sequelae in infants?
Answer
Polycythemia (PCM) is a common condition in premature infants, with an incidence rate of about 1% to 5%. This condition can lead to up to 25% to 50% of affected children experiencing neurological sequelae. Due to the abnormal increase in red blood cells, blood viscosity increases, blood flow slows down, and this can affect the blood supply to tissues and organs. In severe cases, complications such as venous thrombosis, pulmonary hemorrhage, hyperbilirubinemia, necrotizing enterocolitis, and congestive heart failure may occur. If not treated promptly, death or neurological sequelae may result.