Abstract:
Background: Neonatal thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count below the lower
limit of the normal range (<150 × 103
/ml and thrombocytes are colorless blood cells that
help blood clot. Thrombocytopenia affects 1-5% of all neonates globally, with the highest
prevalence in NICU. The Magnitude varies, with severe cases ranging from 2 to 25%. In
addition, its high prevalence, it can worsen morbidity and lengthen hospital stays.
Identifying factors associated with thrombocytopenia can enhance prognosis and reduce
bleeding.
Objective: To assess the magnitude of thrombocytopenia and its associated factors among
neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units at Ambo Town public hospitals, Oromia
Ethiopia, 2024.
Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at NICUs of Ambo town public hospitals
from January 31, 2024 to April 31, 2024. A systematic random sampling technique was
used to select 330 neonates. Data were collected by interviewing mothers and reviewing
neonates' medical records. The data were collected using the Kobo Tool box android
version and exported to SPSS V 25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, bi-variable and
multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed. Hosmer and Lemeshow test
checked the model fitness. Variables with P-value less than 0.05 in multivariable analysis
was declared as statistically significant. Adjusted odd ratio along with 95% CI was used to
show strength of association. Multi collinearity was checked by variance inflation factor
(VIF) and no strong multi collinearity was identified.
Results: The study revealed that 47.94 % (95% CI:(42.3, 53.6) of neonates had
thrombocytopenia. Neonatal Sepsis (AOR=1.78, 95%CI: 1.04, 3.04), Perinatal Asphyxia
(AOR=2.12, 95%CI: 1.16, 3.87), Birth weight less than 2500g (AOR=2.18, 95%CI: 1.10,
4.31) and Gestational age less than 37weeks (AOR=2.486, 95%CI: 1.13, 5.44) were
significantly associated with neonatal thrombocytopenia.
Conclusion and Recommendation: The magnitude of neonatal thrombocytopenia among
neonates admitted to NICUs was slightly higher than global prevalence. Addressing the
identified factors such as preventing and treating neonatal sepsis, preventing birth
asphyxia, normal birth weight and appropriate gestational age are crucial for alleviating
neonatal thrombocytopenia.
