Association of Infection in Neonates and Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcome

Clin Perinatol. 2021 Jun;48(2):251-261. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2021.03.001.

Abstract

Perinatal and neonatal infection and associated inflammatory response may adversely affect brain development and lead to neurodevelopmental impairment. Factors that predict the risk of infection and subsequent adverse outcomes have been identified but substantial gaps remain in identifying mechanisms and interventions that can alter outcomes. This article describes the current epidemiology of neonatal sepsis, the pathogenesis of brain injury with sepsis, and the reported long-term neurodevelopment outcomes among survivors.

Keywords: Bacteremia; Bacterial meningitis; Cerebral palsy; Necrotizing enterocolitis neurodevelopment; Neonate; Preterm; Sepsis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Enterocolitis, Necrotizing*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Neonatal Sepsis*
  • Pregnancy
  • Sepsis*