NEUROLOGICAL EMERGENCIES OF THE NEWBORN; [NEUROLOŠKI POREMEĆAJI NOVOROĐENČADI KOJI ZAHTIJEVAJU HITNO ZBRINJAVANJE]

Abstract

Neonatal encephalopathy is a manifestation of acute neurological disorder in newborn infants and is commonly presented with decreased level of consciousness (lethargy or comma) and seizures. Etiology of neonatal encephalopathy is versatile. The most common cause is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy which is a cause of more than 50% of cases of neonatal encephalopathy. Other causes include infections, inborn errors of metabolism, cerebrovascular infarcts, bilirubin induced neurological disfunction, va-rious neurodegenerative disorders and epileptic syndromes. Because of a wide spectrum of etiology, newborn with encephalopathy must be carefully examined and immediate laboratory analysis, electroencephalographic and neuroradiological investigation must be performed, as well as further specific investigation if needed. Management of newborn with acute neurological disorder consists of stabilization of vital parameters, symptomatic therapy which includes correction of hypoglycemia, electrolyte disturbances, aci-dosis and anemia and treatment of seizures. Specific therapy of neonatal encephalopathy depends on etiology, so multidisciplinary team of pediatric specialists is commonly involved in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. In many cases of neonatal encephalo-pathy, prompt diagnosis can be life-saving. © 2021, Croatian Paediatric Society. All rights reserved.