Neonatology - Hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy Flashcards

1
Q

Definition

A

Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) occurs when there is a reduction in oxygen supply (hypoxia) and/or blood flow (ischaemia) to the neonate’s brain, leading to neuronal damage and dysfunction.

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2
Q

When should HIF be suspected

A
  • Hypoxic events occur during perinatal or intrapartum period
  • Acidosis (pH<7) on umbilical artery blood gas
  • Poor Apgar scores
  • Clinical presentation of HIE
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3
Q

Aetiology

A

The primary cause of HIE in neonates is asphyxia. This can be caused by prolapsed or nuchal cord, intrapartum haemorrhage or maternal shock.

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4
Q

Epidemiology

A

The prevalence of HIE is 1-6 per 1000 live births
Maternal risk factors:
- hypertension,
- diabetes,
- substance abuse,
- infection
Obstetric risk factors:
- prolonged labour,
- meconium-stained amniotic fluid,
- placentral abruption,
- umbilical cord prolapse
Infant risk factors:
- prematurity
- low birth weight
- congenital anomalies

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5
Q

Signs

A

Altered level of consciousness
Hypotonia
Weak or absent reflexes
Apnoea or irregular breathing

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6
Q

Symptoms

A
  • Poor feeding
  • Irritability
  • Lethargy
  • Seizures
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7
Q

Stage scoring system

A

SARNAT SCORE:
Stage 1 (Mild HIE):
- Poor feeding
- Irritable but alert, mild hypotonia, and no seizures
- Resolves within 24 hours
- Normal prognosis
Stage 2 (Moderate HIE):
- Lethargy, moderate hypotonia, and seizures
- Can take weeks to resolve
- Up to 40% develop cerebral palsy
Stage 3 (Severe HIE)
- Coma
- Severe hypotonia
- Severe seizures
- Up to 50% mortality rate
- Up to 90% develop cerebral palsy

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8
Q

Diagnosis

A

FIRST LINE:
- Blood gas analysis
- Blood tests: to evaluate electrolyte levels, glucose, and infection markers
- Cranial USS: to detect brain injury and rule out other intracranial pathologies
Investigations to consider:
- MRI
- EEG

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9
Q

Treatment

A

FIRST LINE:
- Oxygen therapy
- Fluid and electrolyte management: maintain hydration, electrolyte balance and prevent hypoglycaemia
- Antiepileptic drugs
- Therapeutic hypothermia: decrease metabolic demands and protects against further brain injury. Recommended for moderate to severe HIE within 6 hours of birth
- Supportive care: to provide adequate nutrition maintain body temperature and manage any complications

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10
Q

Complications

A

Cerebra palsy
Cognitive impairment
Epilepsy
Visual and hearing impairment
Developmental delay
Death

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