The immune consequences of preterm birth
This study highlights factors that can have a negative impact upon a premature infant’s immune system, many of which are essential to survival; including intrauterine inflammation before birth, administration of antenatal corticosteroidsOften known as steroids, are an anti-inflammatory medicine. More, invasive ventilation and birth via caesareanThis is a surgical operation for delivering a baby by cutting through the wall of the mother's abdomen. More section. Click here to read the article.
Melville, J., Moss, T. (2013) The immune consequences of preterm birth. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 7(79)
Preterm birth and sustained inflammation: consequences for the neonate
This paper explores how sustained inflammation contributes to short- and long-term complications after preterm birth. They have drawn on other studies demonstrating a risk association between poor immune adaptation and long-term risk for infections, chronic lung disease and asthma, neurodevelopmental impairment, and stress incontinence. They recommend hygiene surveillance, less invasive care, human milk feeding, antibiotics stewardship, vaccinations, developmental care and avoidance of adverse exposures such as smoking. Click here to read the article.
Humberg, A., Fortmann, I., Siller, B. et al. (2020) Preterm birth and sustained inflammation: consequences for the neonate. Semin Immunopathol, 42(451–468)