Neonatal Cerebral Air Embolism

Background: Vascular air embolism (VAE) is rare but potentially lethal condition, andsurvival is rarely reported in newborn. Case Characteristics: A preterm (27+1 weeks)neonate on Continuous positive airway pressure developed sudden cardiac asystole on day3 of life and required 30 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Observation: Infant hadair embolism in liver and brain. He survived but developed cystic encephalomalcia requiringextensive neuro-rehabilitation. Message: Air embolism should be considered as differentialdiagnosis of sudden unexplained cardiac deterioration in well neonate.