A condition characterized by a bluish discoloration of the extremities (hands and feet) in newborns, often seen in normal infants shortly after birth due to immature circulatory systems.
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) or brown fat
A type of fat tissue that is involved in thermogenesis (heat production) and is particularly significant in newborns for maintaining body temperature. Brown fat generates heat through the process of non-shivering thermogenesis.
Caput succedaneum
A type of swelling of an infant's head that occurs during birth as a result of pressure against the cervix. This condition is usually benign and resolves on its own.
Cephalohematoma
A collection of blood between the skull and the periosteum (the membrane covering the bones) of a newborn, which results from trauma during delivery. Unlike caput succedaneum, cephalohematoma is confined to one cranial bone and can take longer to resolve.
Ductus arteriosus
A vascular connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta that is present in the fetus, allowing blood to bypass the non-functioning lungs. It typically closes shortly after birth, resulting in normal circulation.
Ductus venosus
A fetal blood vessel that connects the umbilical vein to the inferior vena cava, allowing oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to bypass the liver during fetal development. After birth, this vessel closes and becomes a fibrous ligament.
Foramen ovale
An opening in the septum between the right and left atria of the heart in the fetus, allowing blood to flow directly from the right atrium to the left atrium. It usually closes after birth, separating the two atrial chambers.
Erythema toxicum
A benign skin rash commonly seen in neonates, consisting of small red spots and bumps, typically appears within the first few days of life and resolves without treatment.
Gestational age assessment
The process of determining the age of the fetus or newborn based on various parameters, such as physical exam findings and neurological assessments, to ascertain the expected delivery date and evaluate developmental progress.
Hemolytic disease of the newborn
A condition where the newborn's red blood cells are destroyed due to incompatibility with the mother's blood type, most commonly involving Rh or ABO blood group incompatibility, leading to anemia and jaundice.
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn/VKDB
A condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin K in newborns, resulting in spontaneous bleeding. This is preventable with administration of vitamin K at birth.
Hypoglycemia (in newborns)
A condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels in a newborn, which can lead to neurological impairment if not addressed promptly. Newborns are particularly at risk if they are premature, have low birth weight, or if the mother has diabetes.
Lanugo
Fine, soft hair that covers the newborn's body and is typically shed shortly after birth. Its presence can indicate prematurity as it is more commonly found in preterm infants.
Milia
Small, white cysts that appear on the face of newborns due to trapped keratin in the skin. They are common and typically resolve on their own without treatment.
Neonatal abstinence syndrome
A withdrawal syndrome affecting newborns who were exposed to addictive substances during pregnancy, leading to symptoms such as irritability, poor feeding, and tremors.
Ophthalmia neonatorum
A form of conjunctivitis in newborns, often caused by exposure to bacteria during delivery. It can result in severe eye damage if not treated promptly.
Pathologic jaundice
An abnormal elevation of bilirubin levels in the newborn, typically occurring within the first 24 hours after birth and requiring intervention to prevent severe complications.
Periodic breathing
An irregular pattern of breathing in infants characterized by cycles of rapid breathing followed by pauses. This is considered a normal phenomenon in neonates but can be alarming for caregivers.
Physiologic jaundice
A common and typically benign condition occurring in newborns, where bilirubin levels rise after birth due to the immature function of the liver. It usually resolves within the first week of life.
Polydactyly
A congenital condition characterized by the presence of extra fingers or toes. This may occur bilaterally or unilaterally and can vary in severity.
Respiratory distress syndrome
A condition primarily seen in preterm infants, characterized by difficulty breathing due to insufficient surfactant production in the lungs, leading to alveolar collapse and reduced gas exchange.
Surfactant
A substance composed of lipids and proteins that reduces surface tension in the alveoli of the lungs, preventing their collapse and facilitating breathing, particularly crucial in premature infants.
Syndactyly
A congenital condition where two or more fingers or toes are fused together. This may require surgical intervention depending on severity.
Tachypnea
An abnormally fast respiratory rate, which can be a sign of respiratory distress in newborns. It is important to monitor and address any underlying causes.
Telangiectatic nevi
Also known as "angel's kiss" or "stork bite," these are flat, pink marks seen on the nape of the neck or eyelids of newborns, which typically fade over time.
Transition
The process of adjustment newborns experience after birth, including physiological and behavioral changes necessary for adapting to life outside the womb, such as establishing regular breathing and feeding patterns.