The pattern of eosinophilia in premature infants. A prospective study in premature infants using the absolute eosinophil count.

The incidence and severity of eosinophilia was prospectively studied in 45 premature infants, who were divided into three groups according to their gestational age. The incidence and severity of eosinophilia was higher in small preterm infants. A significantly higher number of infants with eosinophilia received total parenteral nutrition, endotracheal intubation, or blood transfusions. The duration of total parenteral nutrition or endotracheal intubation and the number of blood transfusions were also significantly higher in infants with eosinophilia. Eosinophilia in premature infants is not associated with neutropenia.