Features Cerebral metabolic requirement for oxygen (CMRO2) and cerebral blood flow are higher in young childrenBrain forms higher % of body weight (10–15% of body weight at birth, but only 2% of body weight by the age of 8 years) Blood brain barrier is poorly...
Features Young children have an undeveloped hypothalamus Large surface area to weight ratioIncreased thermal conductanceSubcutaneous tissue is 20-30% thinner than adultsPoorly developed shivering, sweating and vasoconstriction mechanisms In neonates and young infants,...
Features Renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate are low in the neonate and young infant due to increased vascular resistance Reach adult levels between 1 and 2 years age Loop of Henle is short in newborns and tubular function is immature during first yearLess...
Features Liver function is initially immature, with decreased hepatic enzyme function Liver and spleen ride comparatively low within the abdomen and have minimal protection from ribsIntestines, especially the sigmoid and right colon, are not fully attached in the...
Features Foetal haemoglobin (HbF) forms, 70-90% of the haemoglobin molecules at birthDrops to around 5% HbF by 3 months with HbA predominatingFoetal haemoglobin contains less 2,3-DPG and combines more readily with oxygen Haemoglobin levels change rapidly with...
