Neural arch stenosis and spinal cord injury in thanatophoric dysplasia

Article Abstract:

Thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) is a congenital deformity in which the arms and legs are short, the chest cavity is small with inadequately developed vertebra of the spinal column, and there is abnormal development of the bones of the skull. These abnormalities are caused by disorders of bone formation. Breathing problems are often associated with the small deformed chest cavity and these are often the cause of death. A case is presented of a 19-year-old woman who gave birth to her fourth child in the 42nd week of pregnancy. A sonogram performed at labor revealed the baby to have short-limbed osteochondrodysplasia (abnormal development of the bones and cartilage). At birth the baby had poor breathing effort, short arms and legs and large skull. The baby died and autopsy was performed. It was found that the baby had malformations of the vertebrae, especially at the junction of the spine and skull; this led to compression of the spinal cord causing death of nerve tissue. This narrowing and compression may contribute to the breathing difficulties that can cause immediate death in these babies. It is suggested that neural axial injury (at the junction of the skull and axial vertebra) may be another cause of death, not just inadequate development of the respiratory system. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Spinal cord injuries

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Effect of standardized approach to the care of the extremely low birth weight infant

Article Abstract:

Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants require special care to prevent skin breakdown, insensible water loss and hypothermia. A standardized approach, including applying humidity under plastic tenting and minimizing the use of adhesives, may provide significant benefits. A comparison between 13 cases before the standardized approach was adopted and 13 after found ELBW infants maintained sodium levels and required less fluid after the approach was adopted.

Care and treatment, Methods, Infants (Premature), Birth weight, Low, Premature infants, Low birth weight, Neonatal intensive care

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