Effects of hypothermia on NSE and S‐100 protein levels in CSF in neonates following hypoxic/ischaemic brain damage

Abstract Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of hypothermia on neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) and S‐100 protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in neonates with hypoxic/ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods: Fifty‐one enrolled neonates with HIE were divided into two groups: hypothermia (n = 23) and control (n = 28). NSE and S‐100 protein were measured with immunoradiometric assays. Amino acid neurotransmitters were also measured by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Neurodevelopmental assessments were performed at 3 and 12 months of age. Results: Neuron‐specific enolase and S‐100 levels were lower, and neurodevelopment outcome was better in the hypothermia group compared with the control group. Among the infants who received hypothermia, CSF NSE and S‐100 were significantly higher in those who developed severe neurological impairment (mental development index or physical development index <70). There were no significant differences between the two groups in amino acid neurotransmitters. Conclusion: These results indicated that hypothermia was associated with decreased CSF NSE and S‐100 level and correlated with neurodevelopmental outcome in infants with HIE.