Perinatal neuroprotection update

Area of Science:

• Neonatal neurology
• Perinatal medicine
• Neurodevelopmental disorders

Background:

• Perinatal events can cause long-term neurological issues like cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorders.
• Advances in neonatal care increase survival of periviable infants, who are at high risk for neurological deficits.
• Preventing preterm birth and improving neurological outcomes in preterm infants are critical goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide updates on interventions for neurological risk in periviable infants.
• To expand on the avoidance of toxins and infections, including the Zika virus, to prevent neurological sequelae.
• To review strategies that modify neurological risk in infants born prematurely.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent advancements in perinatal care.
• Analysis of interventions including magnesium sulfate, therapeutic hypothermia, and delayed cord clamping.
• Examination of the role of infections and toxins, such as the Zika virus, in neurological outcomes.

Main Results:

• Updates on the efficacy of magnesium sulfate and therapeutic hypothermia in reducing neurological deficits.
• Discussion on the impact of delayed cord clamping and infection prevention on infant brain health.
• Emphasis on the importance of avoiding environmental toxins and specific infections like Zika virus.

Conclusions:

• Continued research and implementation of preventative strategies are essential for improving neurological outcomes in periviable infants.
• Multifaceted approaches, including medical interventions and toxin/infection avoidance, are necessary to mitigate neurological risks.
• Protecting the developing brain from insults during the antepartum, intrapartum, and neonatal periods remains a key challenge in obstetrics and neonatology.