Refractory seizure in a neonate with severe hypernatraemic dehydration – A case report

Abstract

Hypernatraemic dehydration is a common clinical condition seen in neonates especially when they lose weight by more than 10%. Such neonates should be carefully followed up for rising sodium levels and need to be encouraged adequate feeding to prevent complications. Term-appropriate neonate born to a non-consanguineous couple with an uneventful perinatal period was brought to the paediatric emergency room on day 15 of life with multiple seizures and was diagnosed with hypernatraemic dehydration. Her brain imaging demonstrated sagittal venous thrombosis with intraventricular haemorrhage and parenchymal bleeding with infarct. She was managed with respiratory support and fluid management. Parents were counselled regarding the guarded prognosis. She was discharged against medical advice.