Identifying Infants at Risk of Mild Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

There is an increasing recognition that infants with mild hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) face significant risks of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Mild HIE has been linked to a higher probability of language delays and cognitive deficits. While there is currently no approved treatment of mild HIE, some centers have employed therapeutic hypothermia despite limited data regarding its safety and efficacy. This article explores the evidence surrounding mild HIE, highlighting neurodevelopmental outcomes and variability in practice. We also provide a framework for mild HIE risk-stratification that can be incorporated into institutional protocols.