Brainstem injury in victims of sudden intrauterine death syndrome (SIUDS) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Abstract

Brainstem injury in victims of sudden intrauterine death syndrome (SIUDS) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) L. Roncati1, A. Manenti1, F. Piscioli1 1Department of Maternal, Infant and Adult Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, Modena (Italy) Summary Introduction: Sudden intrauterine death syndrome (SIUDS) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) are often associated in a single pathology, resulting from an unexpected fetal or infant injury. Among the various causes, the action of external toxics, still current in theWest, should not be excluded. The present histopathological observations indicate the brainstem nuclei as possible neuronal targets of toxic substances; these cause direct damage to cells, including those at the mitochondrial level, as well as indirect functional impairment. During fetal life in utero, the placenta does not act as a total filter; rather it proves permeable to toxics which are able to penetrate the hematoencephalic barrier which shields the fetus. Clinical tests have yet to be devised which reliably signal impending danger of unexpected fetal or infant injury from external toxics. Key words: Sudden intrauterine death syndrome (SIUDS); Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS); Stillbirth; Endocrine disruptors; Pesticides; Brain.