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Outcome of intrauterine periventricular haemorrhage and leukomalacia
Insights
This case study highlights the severe risks of intrauterine brain injury in very low birthweight infants. Intrauterine periventricular haemorrhage and periventricular leukomalacia lead to high neonatal mortality and significant handicaps in survivors.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal neurology
- Pediatric neuroimaging
- Perinatal medicine
Background:
- Intrauterine brain insults pose significant risks to neonates.
- Understanding the long-term outcomes of such insults is crucial for clinical management.
Abstract:
This case study reports five very low birthweight infants with ultrasound evidence of intrauterine insult to the brain. Intrauterine periventricular haemorrhage (PVH) accompanied by ventricular dilation occurred in two preterm infants both of whom survived and were severely handicapped at follow-up. Three preterm infants had intrauterine periventricular leukomalacia (PVL); one survived and is severely handicapped at one year of age. Our experience and rare case reports in the literature indicate that intrauterine PVH and PVL carry a high risk of death in neonatal period and severe neurological sequelae in survivors.