The Role of Caspase-3 Level in Perinatal Asphyxia

Objective. Perinatal asphyxia is the main cause of neurodevelopmental sequelae and perinatal death. Caspase-3 is a major enzyme associated with apoptosis and is increased in hypoxic ischemic events. There is still no reliable bio marker to predict the severity and outcome of an asphyxial event. This study aimed to determine caspase-3 level and its role as an outcome predictor in perinatal asphyxia.Methods. This paired-group observational analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2016 and February 2017. Fifty neonates were included and Caspase-3 levels were examined at two different times. Student T-test and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis.Results. There were 23 neonates (46%) with HIE and an increase in Caspase-3 level by 0.3135 points between first and second examination (t=6.555; P<0.0001). This study showed significant correlation between caspase-3 level and mortality in neonates with HIE both during initial (RR=2.33; P=0.014) and subsequent examinations (RR=2.25; P=0.015).Conclusions. There is a significant increase in Caspase-3 levels in infants who suffered from perinatal asphyxia and it can predict mortality in neonates with HIE.