HYPOGLYCEMIA OF THE NEWBORN - A REVIEW

It is almost a century since hypoglycaemia (a reduction in the glucose concentration of circulating blood) was first described in children, and over 50 years since the condition was first recognized in infants. Nevertheless, controversy still surrounds the definition, significanc e, and management of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Technological development s such as bedside glucose monitoring have, paradoxically, exacerbated rather than eased the situation. This article reviews the literature o n hypoglycaemia of the newborn, and covers the following: historical a spects; glucose homeostasis and metabolic adaptation at birth; the eff ect of low blood glucose levels on the central nervous system; the def inition of hypoglycaemia; screening; prevention; treatment; research n eeds; and concludes with recommendations for prevention and management .