Abstract
Prematurity is the leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. In developed countries,
extremely preterm infants contribute disproportionately to both neonatal and infant
mortality. Survival of this high-risk population has incrementally improved in recent
years. Despite these improvements, approximately one in four extremely preterm infants
dies during the birth hospitalization. Among those who survive, respiratory and other
morbidities are common, although their effect on quality of life is variable. In addition,
long-term neurodevelopmental impairment is a large concern for patients, clinicians,
and families. However, the interplay of multiple factors contributes to neurodevelopmental
impairment, with measures that change over time and outcomes that can be difficult
to define and predict. Understanding outcomes of extremely preterm infants can help
better counsel families regarding antenatal and postnatal care and guide strategies
to improve survival without morbidity. This review summarizes recent evidence to provide
an overview into the short- and long-term outcomes for extremely preterm infants.
Keywords
prematurity - low birth weight - neurodevelopment - survival - morbidity - periviable