The most reliable method of estimating gestation age is using the last normal menstrual period (LNMP). Other methods include sonography, or the Ballard method, post-partum. Small for gestational age (SGA) is not synonymous with low birth weight (LBW). SGA implies…
Neonates delivered with apnoea require resuscitation. Effective resuscitation can prevent most neonatal deaths at birth. The first 60 seconds are the most critical (golden minute) – positive pressure ventilation should be started during this period. Definition of terms Term Definition…
Virginia Apgar (1909-1974) is credited with the scoring system used to determine whether the baby is responding to resuscitative efforts and the baby’s status at delivery. It is NOT a predictor of long-term outcome, but is likely a predictor of…
Congenital bleeding disorders are rare. They are characterised by repeated haemorrhage, which is usually spontaneous after minor injuries.
Haemophilia is an X-linked recessive clotting disorder that is commonly diagnosed in infant males with haemorrhage or prolonged bleeding time. Symptoms are rarely seen in women due to their heterozygosity. Classification of haemophilia Classification Description Haemophilia A (classic haemophilia) X-linked…
Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is caused by qualitative and quantitative deficiencies in von Willebrand factor. It is characterised by mucocutaneous haemorrhage. Subtypes of von Willebrand Disease Subtype Description Type 1 von Willebrand disease (75%) Autosomal dominant quantitative defect of vWF.…
Thrombophilia refers to an increased tendency to form thrombi. It can occur due to an increased function of coagulation factors or a decreased level of inhibitors of the coagulation pathway