Use of papaya leaf extract in neonatal thrombocytopenia.

Thrombocytopenia is a common condition in neonates. Neonatal thrombocytopenia can cause serious complications such as intraventricular hemorrhage. Papaya leaf extract may be a safe and effective therapy in persistent refractory neonatal thrombocytopenia. Papaya leaf extract was effective for improving platelet count in our baby with persistent thrombocytopenia. However, with no previous evidence of its use in neonates, its use is still experimental and should only be considered in refractory cases after team meeting and detailed discussion with family.