Neurologic sequelae of neonatal hypoglycemia in Kayseri, Turkey

Contrary to belief, neonatal hypoglycemia is relatively common and can cause more severe neurological sequelae than is currently believed. Prevention of hypoglycemic brain damage by hindering prolonged and profound neonatal hypoglycemia might contribute to psychomotor development. At Erciyes University, between December 1996 and 2005, of the patients who applied to Paediatric Neurology Department, 60 cases with a history of neonatal hypoglycemia were included in the study. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and clinical records of all patients were reviewed retrospectively. It was noted that the sequelae with glucose levels of 0 0 to 40 were more serious and intense. The same results were also observed in cranial MRI evaluation. In conclusion, intractable epilepsy, mental motor retardation, cerebral palsy, and visual disturbance were found to be the most common and severe conditions affecting sufferers of neonatal hypoglycemia. In the first 3 days of life, the close monitoring of patients at risk is critical, and hospitalization of severe cases should be considered.