Antenatal glucocorticoid, magnesium exposure, and the prevention of brain injury of prematurity.

Abstract

Prevention of perinatal white matter injury with or without severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is critical to reduce cerebral palsy (CP) in premature infants. Antenatal therapies that may afford neuroprotection include glucocorticoids, which are associated with a significant reduction in severe IVH, and magnesium, which is associated with reduced CP. Potential protective mechanisms of glucocorticoids include a direct effect on brain, improved respiratory function, and more stable blood pressure hemodynamics. Because magnesium is often administered to mothers with pregnancy-induced hypertension, a condition associated with reduction in severe IVH, the independent neuroprotective role of magnesium remains unclear and warrants additional studies.

• Authors: J M Perlman
• Journal: Seminars in pediatric neurology (Semin Pediatr Neurol) Vol. 5 Issue 3 Pg. 202-10 (Sep 1998) ISSN: 1071-9091 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9777678 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Glucocorticoids
• Magnesium Sulfate

Topics

• Brain (drug effects)
• Brain Injuries (prevention & control)
• Glucocorticoids (pharmacology)
• Humans
• Infant, Newborn
• Infant, Premature
• Magnesium Sulfate (pharmacology)
• Prenatal Care