Etiology, Clinical Features, and Management of Birth Asphyxia

Introduction

Birth asphyxia is a serious neonatal condition characterized by inadequate oxygen supply before, during, or immediately after birth. It poses significant risks to newborns and requires prompt medical intervention.

Risk Factors and Causes

Maternal Risk Factors

• Maternal hypertension
• Prolonged labor
• Placental abruption
• Premature rupture of membranes

Fetal and Neonatal Risk Factors

• Umbilical cord prolapse
• Meconium aspiration
• Intrauterine growth restriction
• Congenital anomalies

Clinical Features

Newborns with birth asphyxia may exhibit signs such as:

• Low Apgar scores
• Cyanosis
• Respiratory distress
• Seizures

Management and Treatment

Immediate Resuscitation

Neonatal resuscitation follows guidelines such as the ABC approach:

• Airway: Ensure patency
• Breathing: Initiate positive-pressure ventilation
• Circulation: Perform chest compressions if necessary

Long-Term Management

Newborns with severe birth asphyxia may require:

• Therapeutic hypothermia
• Oxygen therapy
• Neurodevelopmental monitoring