Neonatal encephalopathy is primarily caused by which of the following?

Neonatal encephalopathy is primarily caused by an insult to the fetus or newborn. This condition reflects a range of neurological dysfunction resulting from various factors that impact the brain during or shortly after birth. These insults can include hypoxia-ischemia, which is a lack of adequate oxygen and blood flow to the brain, as well as other traumatic events experienced during labor and delivery, such as birth asphyxia.

Recognizing that neonatal encephalopathy is associated with perinatal factors points to the importance of monitoring fetal well-being during labor and delivery to prevent such injuries. This may involve assessing fetal heart rate patterns, managing complications that arise during labor, and ensuring timely interventions in response to signs of distress.

While genetic disorders, infections during pregnancy, and maternal drug use can contribute to overall neonatal health issues, they are not the primary causes associated with this specific condition. Neonatal encephalopathy more directly results from acute conditions that occur either intrapartum (during labor) or immediately postpartum that compromise the infant's brain function.