Perinatal Brain Damage

This volume is based on a highly successful conference dedicated to Perinatal brain damage: from pathogenesis to neuroprotection. Neonatologists, paediatricians, paediatric neurologists, obstetricians, basic researchers involved in neurosciences, as well as rehabilitation professionals, will be interested by this publication. The volume covers pathogenic aspects of brain lesions occurring in the fetal and neonatal period, and addresses the issues of diagnostic work-up and treatment. The most authoritative basic researchers, clinicians, and specialists in the field of neuroimaging, provide chapters on recent clinical advances. A subject of particular importance is the neurological vulnerability of the preterm infant, which also touches on ethical aspects of the care of high-risk preterm babies and those born from multiple pregnancies. A particularly original section focuses on cerebral white matter and the many issues related to this crucial part of the developing brain. Experts also deal with cerebral visual impairment, motor development, cognitive function, and the mechanisms underlying the neuronal plasticity of the infant''s brain. Concepts of neuroprotection are also outlined, based on pharmacological agents tested on experimental animals and the best drugs used to treat neonatal convulsions.