Question
A premature infant was diagnosed with ischemic and hypoxic brain damage after an early prelabor cesarean section due to premature rupture of membranes. Is this the same as ischemic and hypoxic encephalopathy? What symptoms might a child with ischemic and hypoxic encephalopathy exhibit? What sequelae might they potentially leave behind?
Answer
For the ischemic and hypoxic brain damage in premature infants, the first step should be observation rather than immediate treatment. Cerebral palsy usually occurs before birth or in infancy, with possible causes including birth trauma, neonatal jaundice, brain anoxia, or prematurity. The main symptoms include increased muscle tone, difficulty with abduction, and in severe cases, muscle rigidity, spasms, and maintaining a flexed posture of the joints. Mild cases may show poor hand dexterity and inability to put the heel down when walking. Additionally, patients often have language development and articulation disorders.