The diagnostic criteria vary for different neonatal disorders. Here are some examples:
Neonatal Sepsis
Neonatal sepsis is a severe infection that spreads through the bloodstream. The diagnostic criteria include:
- Clinical signs: Fever, lethargy, poor feeding, respiratory distress.
- Laboratory findings: Positive blood cultures, elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cell count abnormalities.
Neonatal Jaundice
Neonatal jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin. Diagnostic criteria include:
- Clinical observation: Yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera.
- Laboratory tests: Total serum bilirubin levels, direct and indirect bilirubin levels.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
RDS is a common condition in premature infants caused by insufficient surfactant in the lungs. Diagnostic criteria include:
- Clinical signs: Rapid breathing, grunting, flaring nostrils, cyanosis.
- Imaging studies: Chest X-ray showing ground-glass appearance and air bronchograms.
- Blood gas analysis: Hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis.
Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
HIE is brain damage caused by lack of oxygen and blood flow to the brain. Diagnostic criteria include:
- Clinical signs: Altered consciousness, poor muscle tone, seizures.
- Imaging studies: MRI showing areas of brain injury.
- Electroencephalography (EEG): Abnormal brain activity patterns.
