Increase of neuronal injury markers Tau and neurofilament light proteins in umbilical blood after intrapartum asphyxia.

AIM

Compare the levels of the brain injury biomarkers Tau and neurofilament light protein (NFL) in cases of asphyxia with those in controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed the neuronal proteins Tau and NFL in umbilical blood of 10 cases of severe-moderate intrapartum asphyxia and in 18 control cases.

RESULTS

The levels of both Tau and neurofilament were significantly higher after asphyxia and it appeared to be a correlation between the levels of the biomarkers and the severity of the insult.

DISCUSSION

Future studies are warranted to support or refute the value of Tau/NFLin clinical practice.

CONCLUSION

Fetal asphyxia remains a clinical problem resulting in life-long neurological disabilities. We urgently need more accurate early predictive markers to direct the clinician when to provide neuroprotective therapy.