The role of the placenta in perinatal asphyxia, neonatal encephalopathy, and neurodevelopmental outcome: A review

Abstract

Perinatal asphyxia contributes significantly to neonatal deaths globally. This may occur due to the effects of various phenomena like uterine rupture, infections, maternal hemodynamic compromise (amniotic fluid embolus), placenta, and umbilical cord (umbilical cord knot, placental abruption, or compression). Perinatal asphyxia is the term used for interrupted blood flow or the exchange of gases in the fetus during the prenatal period. The reduced oxygenation induces a cascade of brain injuries, resulting in long-term damage to the infant’s brain. Some infants exposed to perinatal hypoxia-ischemia will make an immediate recovery and have normal survival, while others may suffer from an evolving clinical encephalopathy. This review article focuses on the relationship between the placenta, neonatal encephalopathy, and neurodevelopmental outcome. It also aims to identify possible interventions and drive the focus of policymakers towards issues that evolve around perinatal asphyxia, neonatal encephalopathy, and neonatal care and that have a high impact on infant morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa.