Role of MRI in the prognosis of hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy

Abstract

BackgroundNeonatal encephalopathy is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by signs of central nervous system dysfunction in newborn infants. The main cause of neonatal encephalopathy can be broadly divided into perinatal asphyxia [hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)], perinatal stroke, metabolic encephalopathy from inborn errors of metabolism, congenital neonatal central nervous system infections, and severe birth trauma.ObjectivesTo highlight the predictive value of MRI as a safe and superior neuroimaging technique in cases of HIE.Patients and methodsThis progressive study was conducted on 30 neonates with HIE referred to the Radiology Department at Menoufia University Hospitals for advanced magnetic resonance techniques assessment during the period from July 2019 to December 2020. The study received the approval of Ethics Committee of Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University. A written informed consent was taken from the parents or caregivers and written informed consent was obtained from them.ResultsApparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value was significantly increased with hypertonia (1.75 ± 1.21), hypotonia (1.52 ± 1.51), and MRI than flaccid (0.86 ± 0.67). There was no statistically significant relation between ADC value with time of birth, causes of admission, Apgar score, time of birth at 5 min, Tendon reflex, seizures, periventricular leukomalacia, and intraventricular hemorrhage.ConclusionMRI findings were significantly related with diffusion-weighted (DW) and ADC value. MRI findings indicated that periventricular leukomalacia and basal ganglia ischemia were significantly related with DW. Moreover, it was noted that MRI is a very efficient tool in evaluating morphometric HIE. It's noninvasiveness and no exposure to ionizing radiation is an added advantage. However, experience and understanding of the principles are essential for accurate diagnosis. Also, DW and ADC values may add value to routine MRI examination. However, there is limitation in our study as regards the small number of cases, lack of clinical data, and long-term follow-up of cases.