encephalopathy
Pronunciation: en-SEF-ah-LOP-ah-thee
A broad term describing brain dysfunction in newborns, often referring to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy caused by oxygen deprivation around the time of birth.
Full Definition
Neonatal encephalopathy is a syndrome of disturbed neurological function in the earliest days of life in term or near-term infants, manifested by difficulty initiating and maintaining respiration, abnormal tone and reflexes, altered level of consciousness, and often seizures. While the term encompasses various causes, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) due to oxygen deprivation is the most common form. The condition is classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on clinical findings and may be associated with long-term neurodevelopmental consequences including cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and epilepsy. Therapeutic hypothermia is the standard treatment for moderate to severe HIE when initiated within 6 hours of birth.
Usage
Usage note: In neonatology, often refers specifically to HIE unless another cause is specified.
In Context
- "The newborn was started on therapeutic hypothermia protocol for moderate hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy." — NICU admission order
- "Long-term neurodevelopmental follow-up is essential for all infants who experience neonatal encephalopathy." — Discharge planning conference