[Abnormalities in neonatal brain ultrasound examination in relation to cord blood TNF and chorioamnionitis]

The study was undertaken to determine whether PIVH and PVL in neonates are related to cord blood TNF levels and chorioamnionitis. The study material consisted of 54 neonates--31 preterm and 23 full-term. 39 of those babies were born to mothers with clinical signs of intrauterine infection, but only in 20 cases histologic chorioamnionitis were recognised. In the whole study newborns brain ultrasound examination was taken during the first 3 days of life. Abnormal head ultrasound (PIVH--17 cases or PVL--6 cases) was diagnosed in 23 babies. That was found that brain damage, recognised during neonatal period, was mainly connected with prematurity and signs of maternal infections but not with cord blood TNF levels. We conclude that prolongation of pregnancy as well as early recognition and proper treatment of intrauterine infection can prevent PIVH and PVL in neonates.