ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of both the preterm and term infant in relation to a range of neurological conditions with reference to how they can be prevented to minimise any impact on future outcomes. Normal function of the central nervous system is critical to the working of all other organs and systems in the body and therefore any injury to the brain will have implications for both physical and cognitive outcomes. To better understand neonatal brain injury, it is important to recognise that there are specific vulnerabilities that distinguish the response of the immature or neonatal brain, from that of the mature adult brain. Brain development begins in the embryonic period of development from 4–8 weeks of gestation and continues well into childhood. The term hydrocephalus refers to a progressive dilatation of the cerebral ventricular system due to a production of cerebrospinal fluid that exceeds the absorption rate.
