ABSTRACT
The neonatal period is a time of rapid flux and hematological
problems that present during this period as a result of a
genetic defect, immaturity, or stress and present a major
diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the neonatologist and
hematologist alike. The recent explosion in molecular
biological techniques has allowed the elucidation of the
molecular and cellular mechanisms that give rise to the
disorders of platelets, coagulation proteins, and red cells that
present in the newborn. Because of the space allotted it is
hoped that this chapter will give the reader a broad under-
standing and appreciation of the major hematological
disorders seen in the neonatal period, especially those
involving platelets and clotting proteins.
