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Updated: May 1, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
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Non-neurological, steroid-related adverse events in very low birth weight infants: a prospective audit

S B Röhr1, H Sauer, S Gottschling

  • 1University Hospital of Saarland, Medical School, Homburg, Germany.

Swiss Medical Weekly
|April 8, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Systematic steroid use in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants is linked to serious short-term side effects, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and thrombus formation. These risks necessitate careful consideration during steroid administration in VLBW neonates.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Neonatal Intensive Care

Background:

  • Systematic steroid administration is employed in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.
  • Potential adverse events associated with steroid use require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the incidence of cardiac and metabolic adverse events in VLBW infants receiving systematic steroids.
  • To identify risks associated with steroid therapy in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective single-center audit was conducted.
  • Included VLBW infants (<1,500 g) admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.
  • Data collected on steroid use, indications, and adverse events.

Main Results:

  • Steroid use was associated with significantly lower birth weight, gestational age, and Apgar scores.
  • Increased incidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, thrombus formation, hyperglycemia, hypernatremia, and sepsis/infections in the steroid group.
  • Mortality rate was higher in infants receiving steroids (OR: 9.6, p=0.02).

Conclusions:

  • Systematic steroid administration in VLBW infants is significantly associated with severe short-term adverse events.
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and thrombus formation are critical concerns.
  • These complications must be weighed against the benefits when prescribing steroids to VLBW infants.
Abstract

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