[Prediction of anemia or polycytosis from the hematocrit determination in the umbilical artery of the newborn (author's transl)].

Among 430 deliveries a random group of 100 newborns were used to determine the value of the umbilical arterial hematocrit for the prediction of neonatal anemia or polycytosis. Normal values were Hct, 48 vol.% to 72%. Even considering the PH of umbilical arterial blood, the Hct. in the umbilical attery permits an excellent prediction on the neonatal Hct. at 15 to 60 minutes post-partum. When the umbilical arterial Hct. is normal a capillary Hct. determination is not necessary for routine diagnosis. If the umbilical arterial Hct. is below 46% or above 61% a capillary Hct. is necessary since below 46% or above 61% neonatal anemia or polycytosis could be found.