Objective: to evaluate the serum levels of TPO in the healthy and asphyxiated newborns during the first week of life and if the level of this cytokine correlates with the degree of asphyxia and the mode of delivery. Patients and methods: 30 asphyxiated neonates were included in the study and were compared to 30 apparently healthy neonates where we measured Thrombopoietin at days 1,3 and 7. Results: TPO level was elevated in the asphyxiated group in comparison to the control group at day 3 of life. TPO level was significantly correlated to the Sarnat scoring system. TPO level was significantly correlated to the platelet count at days 1, 3 and 7. Conclusion: thrombopoietin may be used as a new marker for asphyxia. Further studies are recommended for further studying the role of thrombopoietin in asphyxia in neonates.