Long-term neurodevelopmental outcome after intrauterine transfusion for fetal anemia

The long-term neurodevelopmental outcome of children born after intrauterine blood transfusion (IUT) for red cell alloimmunization is considered favorable. Severe hydrops has been identified as a strong predictor for neurodevelopmental impairment. However, the long-term outcome of survivors of IUT for congenital Parvovirus B19 infection and fetomaternal hemorrhage is not well known. Limitations of the follow-up studies to date are small sample size, lack of controls, unclear criteria for impairment and lack of standardized developmental tests. Future research should take into account more subtle impairments, since cognitive functioning <−1 SD, behavioral and learning problems already have a significant impact on care requirements and future socio-economic potential. A better understanding of the effect of IUT and fetal anemia on child development over time will allow more accurate parental counseling and targeted interventions to optimize child development when needed.