Oxygen Deprivation and possible genetic disorder

[Katherine]

My friend has just had her baby induced when 2 weeks late and weighing 8lb 14oz. The baby got into distress and suffered oxygen deprivation and has spent 5 days in an incubator being tube fed although he's now with mum and BF. They have said that only time will tell whether there is any long term damage. However the Drs have also commented on his hands and feet (feet turned inwards and hards refusing to unfold) and said that his jaw if set too far back or something. They feel this could be a sign of a genetic disorder. Although I wondered if it could be a consequence of the oxygen deprivation.

This poor mum had a difficult first delivery ending in caesarian and had a miscarriage at the same time as me. We then became pg again within a few weeks of each other so have followed one anothers pg quite closely. I was wondering if anyone had come across these "genetic markers" before. I just can't imagine what she is going through at the moment and although everyone is trying to be positive no-one really knows what it all means. Thanks.

[Jimjams]

Are they carrying out genetic tests? Different syndromes do have different markers but these aren't really all that reliable. Is she getting genetic counselling? The features you describe shouldn't really be due to oxygen deprivation. Have they scanned him to see whether there are any signs of brain damage?

Hope she gets some answers soon.

[Jimjams]

different physical markers I mean- they would need to be comfirmed by genetic testing where possible.

[LizP]

From remembering the human genetics part of my degree, I think many of the syndromes we had to learn about involved feet (the term rocker bottom feet comes to mind) and odd jaws (micrognathia ??)among their external physical symptoms, so I guess seeing these would act as a flag for doctors to investigate further. The only way to really know is genetic testing.

[fio2]

My dd had a difficult birth and had a 'dusky' episode following an emergency section - she was also 2 weeks late. She spent a few days a SCBU and received to brain ultrsounds whilst on there. I would assume they would do this with your friends baby. Its to check they have not had any bleeding on the brain. My dd had cerebal oedema (swelling) but it subsided without a bleed (thank god!)

The hands and feet being genetic markers are just like jimjmas said. I would be assuming that blood tests will be done to check if it is a genetic abnormality. Hope everything goes ok for them it must be a worrying time.