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This paper explores the relationship between erythropoietin levels, transfusions, and outcomes in extremely preterm infants.

June 27, 2026PLoS ONEOpen Access

Erythropoietin, transfusions, and outcomes of retinopathy of prematurity and brain injury in extremely preterm infants: A post hoc analysis of the Preterm Erythropoietin Neuroprotection Trial (PENUT)

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Post hoc analysis examines erythropoietin levels and transfusion effects on outcomes in extremely preterm infants, suggesting critical associations.

This paper explores the relationship between erythropoietin levels, transfusions, and outcomes in extremely preterm infants.
Performed a post hoc analysis using data from the Preterm Erythropoietin Neuroprotection Trial with N = 941.
Erythropoietin concentrations measured at baseline and 7, 9, and 14 days, with MRI assessments at 36 weeks postmenstrual age for N = 220.
Correlations analyzed between Epo levels, transfusions, and outcomes like retinopathy of prematurity and brain injury.
Baseline Epo concentrations negatively correlated with gestational age and Apgar scores, and positively with intraventricular hemorrhage.
In the placebo group, higher Epo at 1 week and 2-week AUC correlated with increased white matter injury, while in the treatment group, it negatively correlated.
Transfusions were significantly associated with higher occurrences of severe ROP and total brain injury on MRI.

Fahim et al. (2026) studied this question.

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Post hoc analysis examines erythropoietin levels and transfusion effects on outcomes in extremely preterm infants, suggesting critical associations.