594 Early Prediction of Long Term Outcome of Low Risk Premature Neonates with the Aeeg

Background and aims: Preterm infants of lower gestational age(GA) display advanced maturation of aEEG in comparison to others of higher GA at the same post conceptional age(PCA). Brain ontogeny follows specific developmental stages and any deviations from this process may influence later cognitive function. To investigate the association between aEEG evolution during the neonatal period and outcome of premature infants with different GA. Methods: 84 clinically stable preterm infants(GA 26-32 wks) without ultrasonographic evidence of neurological abnormalities at birth were assessed at the age of 3 years (Bayleys screening test, III edition) aEEG traces of all neonates were recorded within the first 72 h of life and then weekly until discharge. Four aspects of each tracing (continuity, sleep-wake cycling, bandwidth, and amplitude of the lower border)were evaluated applying pre-established criteria. Results: None of the children had gross motor disturbances, but one, and severe developmental delays. The children were divided into group A (n=23, mild developmental problems) and group B(n=61 normal for the age). Both groups had comparable initial neonatal characteristics. Group A showed higher scores in all 4 components of the aEEG as compared to group B, with significant differences around 31-32 wks PCA. Total score(T) of the 4 aspects of aEEG was significantly higher between 28-32wks (figure). Conclusions: Accelerated maturation of cerebral function seems to be associated with long-term cognitive and behavioral deficits without overt effects on motor development in preterm infants who were neurologically normal in the neonatal period.