Incidence of Autism, low IQ, and mental retardation are high in neonates who receive steroids like Betamethasone antenatally through the mother or perinatally. Incidence rises from 0.4% to 2% in neonates who received steroids perinatally. Steroids increase and stimulate apoptosis in neonatal brain tissue, making neonates more susceptible to: Hypoxia Damage due to unnecessary oxygen supplementation Maternal hypotension Other associated complications One or two doses of surfactant may be a better option than lifelong misery for the mother and family.
Pediatricians, especially Neonatologists, should study this retrospectively and share their experience. What has been your clinical experience regarding the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes following antenatal or perinatal corticosteroid exposure? Share your perspective below.
