extremely low birth weight
Also written as: ELBW — extremely low birth weight
A birth weight classification for infants weighing less than 1,000 grams at birth, indicating significant prematurity and medical complexity.
Full Definition
Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) is a critical classification in neonatology referring to infants who weigh less than 1,000 grams (approximately 2 pounds 3 ounces) at birth. This category represents the most vulnerable population in neonatal intensive care, typically born before 28 weeks of gestation. ELBW infants face numerous immediate and long-term complications including respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The survival rate and neurodevelopmental outcomes for ELBW infants have improved significantly with advances in neonatal care, but these infants require intensive medical management and prolonged hospitalization. This classification is distinct from very low birth weight (VLBW, <1,500g) and low birth weight (LBW, <2,500g), with each category carrying different risk profiles and management considerations.
Usage
Usage note: Specific weight threshold (<1,000g) distinguishes from other birth weight categories; often correlates with extreme prematurity.
In Context
- "The extremely low birth weight infant at 750 grams required immediate respiratory support and surfactant therapy." — NICU admission note
- "Long-term follow-up protocols for extremely low birth weight infants include developmental assessment at 18-24 months corrected age." — Neonatal follow-up clinic guideline