Periventricular haemorrhage (PVH) is bleeding into the germinal matrix capillary bed – the tissue surrounding the lateral ventricles. It is common in preterm neonates (< 32 weeks gestation), very low birth weight neonates (< 1500 g), and is closely associated…
Neonatal hypotonia is a state of poor muscle tone at rest that is characterised by a “rag doll” feel, poor sucking, a weak cry, and increased joint mobility. It may or may not involve muscle weakness. Causes of neonatal hypotonia…
Neonatal seizures are seizures occurring in the first 28 days of life. Most seizures occur between 12 and 48 hours of life, and these are associated with ischemia or haemorrhage. Seizures first presenting more than 40 hours of life are…
Neonatal sepsis is a life-threatening bloodstream infection that affects infants < 28 days old. Definition of terms Term Definition Suspected sepsis Presence of sepsis risk factors in the baby, or findings suggesting sepsis regardless of whether there are symptoms or…
In term neonates, meconium is usually passed within 24- 48 hours. Delayed passage in preterm neonates is common. Differentials for delayed passage of meconium Category Differentials Mechanical (obstructive) Hirschsprung disease, meconium ileus, meconium plug syndrome, intestinal atresia, anorectal malformations, small…
Overview Neonatal jaundice refers to yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes due to elevated bilirubin within the first 28 days of life. Ill-appearing babies with jaundice are more likely to have infections or metabolic disorders. Well-appearing babies are more…
Differentials for respiratory distress in neonates Classification 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 Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, congenital pneumonia, pulmonary…
When is the baby ready for feeding? Feeding should ideally be started within 6 hours after birth. If the mother is planning on breastfeeding, the baby should be put to the breast within 30 minutes of birth if possible. Babies…
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…
Overview The nursery exam is done in the nursery or NICU within 24 hours of birth to identify any abnormalities or anomalies that may impact the infant’s current or future well-being. The presence of one or two isolated anomalies is…