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Medical Encyclopedia

Exchange transfusion - series: Indication

Exchange transfusion - series Illustrations: Procedure Indication Procedure

Less frequently, when neonatal jaundice is more severe, and fluorescent light therapy is unable to break down all circulating bilirubin, exchange transfusion is often used. High levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to brain damage and other serious problems. In these cases, exchange transfusion is a life-saving procedure designed to counteract the effects of serious jaundice, infection, or toxicity. The procedure involves the staged removal of the infant's blood and replacement with fresh donor blood or plasma.

Guidelines for an exchange transfusion include:

• Hemolytic disease of the newborn (Rh disease)
• Life-threatening infection
• Severe disturbances in body chemistry
• Toxic effects of drugs
• Polycythemia

Update Date: 4/8/2008

Updated by: Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz, Kelli A. Stacy, ELS. Previously reviewed by Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/10/2006).

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