Leukemoid Reaction in a Preterm Infant: Diagnostic Challenge in Resource Poor Setting: A Case Report
Okoli Chukwudi *
Department of Haematology/Oncology, Lifeline Children’s Hospital Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.
Nwaogu Nwaoma
George's Memorial Medical Center Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.
Nwafia Ifeyinwa
College of Medicine, University of Nigeria Ituku, Ozalla Campus, Enugu, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
A preterm neonate delivered at 28 weeks gestation, mother had antenatal steroid. Blood counts showed leukemoid reaction, blood culture, procalcitonin and peripheral blood film was normal. Baby was stabilized in the NICU, recovered and the WBC count done serially showed a downward trend. The leukemoid reaction was presumed to come from antenatal steroid use. The diagnostic and management challenges encountered in managing the infant in resource constrained environment like ours is presented alongside.
Keywords: Leukemoid reaction, preterm infant, blood culture.