Sequential neurological examinations in infants with neonatal encephalopathy and low apgar scores: relationship with brain MRI.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to (a) describe the evolution of neurological signs after the neonatal period in infants with neonatal encephalopathy and abnormal outcome and (b) to establish the relationship between the evolution of neurological signs and patterns of lesions on brain MRI.

PATIENTS

Fifteen children with low Apgar scores, abnormal neurological signs at the end of the neonatal period, and abnormal outcome were examined at 1 - 2 weeks, 5 - 7 weeks, and 6 months. All the infants had at least one MRI scan performed in the neonatal period.

RESULTS

All infants had persistent abnormalities on all examinations performed but the severity of neurological impairment was variable and was related to the pattern of brain lesions. Infants with severe basal ganglia and white matter lesions showed abnormal axial and limb tone, movements, and visual function on all the examinations and none achieved independent sitting. In infants with moderate basal ganglia lesions and/or severe white matter changes, visual function and feeding improved by 5 - 7 weeks and were still normal at 6 months while limb tone, which was reduced in the first weeks, appeared to be normal at 5 - 6 weeks but was found to be increased at 6 months; all were able to sit unsupported at 2 years and most of them achieved the ability to walk with support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the evolution of the neurological patterns after the neonatal period in infants with persisting neonatal abnormalities depends on their pattern of brain lesions.