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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
08:47
The Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Model of Perinatal Ischemia
Published on: November 19, 2008
Extensive Biventricular Subendocardial Infarction with Cardiogenic Shock as Secondary Brain Hit in an Asphyxiated
María José Rodríguez-Castaño1, Niki Oikonomopoulou1, Irene Cuadrado2
1Department of Neonatology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos- IdISSC, Madrid, Spain.
Fetal and Pediatric Pathology
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Neonatal myocardial infarction (MI) is rare, but can occur with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This case highlights cardiovascular dysfunction
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is a rare condition in neonates.
- Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can be associated with MI.
- Perinatal asphyxia is a potential cause of neonatal MI and HIE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of neonatal MI secondary to HIE.
- To emphasize the link between cardiovascular dysfunction and brain injury in neonates.
- To highlight the importance of early detection and management of cardiac issues in HIE.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a full-term newborn with HIE.
- Initiation of therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and intensive supportive care.
- Postmortem examination to determine the extent of myocardial infarction.
Main Results:
- The infant developed extensive myocardial infarction and progressive neurological deterioration.
- Despite TH and supportive care, the infant experienced refractory cardiogenic shock and died.
- Postmortem revealed widespread subendocardial infarction, with normal heart and coronary arteries.
Conclusions:
- Cardiovascular dysfunction plays a critical role in brain injury pathogenesis in neonatal HIE.
- Early multimodal monitoring and management of myocardial dysfunction are crucial.
- Timely intervention may improve outcomes in high-risk neonates with HIE and cardiac compromise.
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