How Do Neonatal Disorders Affect Neurodevelopment?
Neonatal disorders can disrupt the normal processes of brain development in several ways:
1. Hypoxia and Ischemia: Conditions like HIE result in reduced oxygen and blood flow to the brain, leading to neuronal injury or death. 2. Inflammation and Infection: Neonatal sepsis can induce systemic inflammation, which may cross the blood-brain barrier and damage developing brain tissues. 3. Metabolic Imbalances: Disorders such as neonatal hypoglycemia can deprive the brain of essential nutrients, impairing its growth and function. 4. Prematurity: Preterm infants are at a higher risk for neurodevelopmental issues due to the immaturity of their brain structures at birth.