Neuronal damage in the developing brain following intrauterine asphyxia

Perinatal asphyxia is thought to be a significant cause of still birth and neurological sequelae. Although several different patterns of neuronal injury are seen in the newborn, previously little was known about the precise cause and effect relationships. This brief review summarizes recent research which has identified how prenatal factors such as recurrent episodes of asphyxia, gestational age, growth retardation and cerebral temperature may influence the severity and regional distribution of neuronal loss.