GM-CSF as Sepsis Prophylaxis in At-Risk Neonates

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor prophylaxis did not decrease rates of sepsis or death among small-for-gestational-age neonates.

Among preterm neonates, sepsis is a major cause of neurological damage and death. Data from animal studies and small clinical trials indicate that prophylactic administration of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) might reduce the rates of sepsis and death in small-for-gestational-age neonates. Now, in a single-blind, controlled trial (“PROGRAMS”) involving 26 medical centers, researchers have further evaluated GM-CSF’s possible role in sepsis prevention.

Two hundred eighty neonates born at ≤31 weeks of gestation and with birth weights below the 10th percentile for gestational age were randomized to receive GM-CSF or no GM-CSF in addition to standard care. Although neutrophil counts rose more rapidly in the GM-CSF–group…

Reviewing Author

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)