Neuroimaging and Other Neurodiagnostic Tests in Neonatal Encephalopathy

Abstract

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal period. Long-term neurodevelopmental disability is also frequent in survivors. Conventional MRI defines typical patterns of injury that reflect specific pathophysiologic mechanisms. Advanced magnetic resonance techniques now provide unique perspectives on neonatal brain metabolism, microstructure, and connectivity. The application of these imaging techniques has revealed that brain injury commonly occurs at or near the time of birth and evolves over the first weeks of life. Amplitude-integrated electroencephalogram and near-infrared spectroscopy are increasingly used as bedside tools in neonatal intensive care units to monitor brain function.

Keywords: Amplitude integrated EEG; Birth asphyxia; Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy; MR spectroscopy; MRI; Near-infrared spectroscopy.