IVH is a commonly encountered in the NICU, particularly in preterm neonates. It is closely associated with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy. It is the hemorrhage into the germinal matrix capillary bed (tissues surrounding the lateral ventricle). It is typically the result…
Overview Hypotonia can occur due to dysfunction anywhere along the neuroaxis. Can be acquired or inherited. The MCC of acquired hypotonia is HIE, and the MCC of congenital hypotonia is Down syndrome. A normal young infant should be able to…
Overview The MCC of neonatal seizures is HIE. The lifespan risk of seizures is highest in the neonatal period and premature infants are at an increased risk of developing seizures. Causes of Neonatal Seizures Most seizures occur between 12-48 hours…
Overview HIE is basically caused by perfusion-reperfusion injury. It is a major cause of morbidity in preterm infants and is the MCC of neonatal seizures. In severe cases, ischemic injury can extend beyond the brain to involve the heart, liver,…
Overview Definiton of terms Term Definition Suspected sepsis Presence of sepsis risk factors in the baby, or findings suggesting sepsis on follow up regardless of whether there are symptoms or not. Clinical sepsis Clinical features and lab findings are present,…
Overview (Failure to Pass Meconium) Hallmark sx on neonatal bowel obstruction include: Failure to pass mconium in 24 hours, Abdominal distention, Reluctance to feed, AND Bilious vomiting. If there is failure to pass meconium: Esophageal atresia/Tracheoesophageal fistula Esophageal atresia involves…
Overview Neonatal jaundice refers to yellowness o the skin and mucous membranes due to elevated bilirubin within the first 28 days of life. Every baby should be examined for jaundice in bright natural light if possible. (sclera, gum, palm, and…
General Approach to Respiratory Distress in Neonates Differentials for Respiratory Distress in Neonates Classificatoin Differentials Nota bene CNS Intracranial hemorrhage, over sedation, perinatal asphyxia Presents with slow, irregular breathing with apnoeic attacks, poor reflexes and disturbed consciousness Pulmonary causes Lung…
When is the baby ready for feeding? Baby is typically fed within 6 hours after birth (may need to wake up baby to feed. If the mother is planning on breastfeeding the baby should be put to the breast within…
Risk factors for Birth Injuries Soft-tissue injuries of the head Cephalohematoma Collection of blood between the periosteum and skull bone (thus hematoma is imited by the suture lines. Commonly seen in the occipital bone and 5-20% of infants have an…