Neurodevelopmental Outcome of Newborns with Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension

Abstract

Background: Developmental disabilities have been reported in infants with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) treated with inhaled nitric oxide (INO) or intravenous magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) and/or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. This paper reports the rate of developmental disabilities at 2 years of age in a cohort of survivors of PPHN treated with INO, MgSO4, or both during the neonatal period. Methods: Sixteen survivors of PPHN were prospectively followed up. These infants were treated with intravenous MgSO4 and/or INO during the neonatal period. Neurodevelopmental assessment was carried out at 2 years of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development 2nd Edition by a developmental psychologist. Eleven (68.8%) infants completed the 2-year follow-up. Results: The median mental developmental index (MDI) and physical developmental index scores were 85 (interquartile range, IQR = 27) and 87 (IQR = 33), respectively. Two infants (18.2%) had developmental disability (MDI scores <70). Conclusion: Survivors of PPHN are at risk of developmental disabilities. Early intervention programme and long-term follow-up should be integrated in the management of these infants.