Neonatal encephalopathy

Neonatal encephalopathy (NE), also known as neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (neonatal HIE or NHIE), is defined by signs and symptoms of abnormal neurological function in the first few days of life in an infant born at term. In this condition there is difficulty initiating and maintaining respirations, a subnormal level of consciousness, and associated depression of tone, reflexes, and possibly seizures. Encephalopathy is a nonspecific response of the brain to injury which may occur via multiple methods, but is commonly caused by birth asphyxia, leading to cerebral hypoxia. Neonatal encephalopathy (NE), also known as neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (neonatal HIE or NHIE), is defined by signs and symptoms of abnormal neurological function in the first few days of life in an infant born at term. In this condition there is difficulty initiating and maintaining respirations, a subnormal level of consciousness, and associated depression of tone, reflexes, and possibly seizures. Encephalopathy is a nonspecific response of the brain to injury which may occur via multiple methods, but is commonly caused by birth asphyxia, leading to cerebral hypoxia.