Encephalopathy in the Preterm Infant

Abstract

Prematurity remains common, and infants born prematurely have an increased risk of brain injury. “Encephalopathy of prematurity” refers to brain dysfunction and injury in preterm infants due to a variety of processes. It is known to be an important risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, however a thorough understanding of the causes, clinical presentation, evolution, and outcomes has not been fully established. The aim of this study is to better identify, understand and predict encephalopathy in preterm infants. This is an observational prospective cohort study that investigates babies born at less than 29 weeks’ gestation. Data will be collected on antenatal history, birth and resuscitation details, progress, clinical examinations and investigations in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For the study, participants will undergo additional periods of brain monitoring and brain imaging. Video recordings will also be taken of routine neurological examinations at certain timepoints. Data will then be collected from routine developmental progress. Data will then be collected from the routine neurodevelopmental follow-up appointments at 12-14 weeks and 24-30 months corrected age. Outcomes of the study have the potential to improve the identification and care of infants at risk of encephalopathy, and better understand their prognosis. A better understanding of the condition may pave the way for future studies on targeted therapies to improve neonatal neurological and developmental outcomes.