Bradycardia in Accidental Severe Hypothermia in a Newborn: Treat or Don’t Touch? A case report

Abstract BackgroundHypothermia significantly affects mortality and morbidity of newborns. Literature about severe accidental hypothermia in neonates is limited. We present a case of a neonate suffering from severe accidental hypothermia. An understanding of the physiology of neonatal thermoregulation and hypothermia is important to decide on treatment.Case presentationWe report a case of severe accidental hypothermia (rectal temperature 25.7°C) in a hypothropic newborn due to prolonged exposure to low ambient temperature. The newborn presented bradycardic, bradypneic, lethargic, pale and cold. Bradycardia, bradypnea and consciousness were interpreted in the context of the measured body temperature. Therefore, no reanimation or intubation was initiated. The newborn was closely monitored and successfully treated only with active and passive rewarming. ConclusionClinical parameters such as heart frequency, blood pressure, respiration and consciousness must be interpreted in light of the measured body temperature. Medical treatment should be adapted to the clinical presentation. External rewarming can be a safe and effective measure in neonatal patients.