Neonatal Cerebral Air Embolism

ABSTRACT

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.