Management Options In Neonatal Encephalopathy

Neonatal encephalopathy is important for its association with significant morbidity and mortality in the newborn period as well as chronic handicapping conditions later in life. It most commonly occurs following perinatal asphyxia and causes significant brain damage. Although, it is characterized by specific clinical and neuroimaging features, the management of the condition is largely supportive. Recent advances in the pathophysiology of neonatal encephalopathy include the role of increased cytosolic influx of calcium ions, excitatory amino acid neurotransmitters and mediators of inflammation like nitric oxide and free radicals in the disruption of neuronal metabolism thus, resulting in widespread neuronal deaths. The role and clinical applicability of these pathophysiological proposals in selecting management options for neonatal encephalopathy are discussed.