63-66- Vishnu-marker

Birth asphyxia is a leading cause of neonatal mortality in India. At present there is no reliable early marker to predict the outcome in these cases. We conducted this study to evaluate 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as a biochemical marker for predicting outcome in perinatal asphyxia. Term neonates fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited in the study. Cord blood was collected immediately after birth. The concentration of 8-OHdG was analyzed using ELISA. These children were followed up till discharge from hospital with close monitoring for adverse events and morbidities. Neurodevelopmental assessment was done using Baroda developmental screening test up to the age of 6 months. The mean value of 8-OHdG was found to increase with severity of encephalopathy. 8-OHdG values were significantly higher among the cases that expired compared to those who survived. Developmental delay occurred in 29.4% cases. The 8-OHdG levels were significantly higher among the cases who developed developmental delay than those with normal development. It is concluded that, 8-OHdG is a good early serum biochemical marker in predicting the outcome in perinatal asphyxia