Bhagya Madhushani De Silva¹, Sachintha Dissanayake¹, Priyantha Dissanayaka¹, Achala Wanasinghe¹
1- Teaching Hospital Badulla, Sri Lanka
Corresponding Author:
Bhagya Madhushani De Silva (
akroogirl@gmail.com)
Abstract Body
Introduction: Neonatal Cerebral Infarction (NCI) is a rare diagnosis, caused by the occlusion of cerebral blood vessels, occurring from 28 weeks of gestation up to 28 days after birth. Though neonatal convulsions (NC) are common presentation, and early imaging with prompt diagnosis is crucial for a good prognosis.
Case Report: A baby girl was delivered via emergency lower segment cesarean section (LSCS) at term transferred from local hospital due to poor sucking with cyanosis and respiratory distress. On day 2, baby developed 3 episodes of generalized and focal convulsions. Metabolic causes were excluded and convulsions were managed with antiepileptics. A 2D echocardiogram (2D Echo) revealed a fenestrated interatrial septum, with no pulmonary hypertension or dilated cardiomyopathy . Lumbar Puncture (LP) showed low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose and otherwise normal findings. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of brain demonstrated an acute infarction of the left temporo-parietal lobe. Further hematology consultation recommended investigating protein C and S, antithrombin levels, Factor V Leiden mutation, MTHFR gene mutation, and prothrombin gene mutation studies which later reported as normal. Child was managed conservatively with early multidisciplinary pediatric rehabilitation follow-up plan and regular antiepileptics.
Conclusion: Neonatal cerebral infarction commonly presents with convulsions, but clinicians should be mindful of atypical presentations. Symptoms typically develop within the first 48 hours of life. Although etiology is often unclear, LSCS is associated with a higher risk. Cranial imaging, particularly MRI, remains essential for definitive diagnosis, and treatment is primarily supportive.