Neurokinin A level in hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

Background: The present study was performed to investigate the effect of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) on the neurotransmitter neurokinin A (NKA) and determine its relation to the severity of neonatal hypoxia.

Methods: Eighteen neonates suffering from HIE were compared to 10 clinically healthy full-term neonates acting as the control group. Maternal history of each neonate was collected, then deliveries were attended, resuscitation details including the Apgar score and thorough clinical examination of the neonates were performed.