Exceptional Survival of a Buried Alive Newborn: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction

This report details the exceptional survival of a female newborn buried alive by her own mother after a clandestine and unassisted birth. Despite spending over six hours underground, the newborn remarkably survived without exhibiting signs of perinatal asphyxia or major complications, and did not require advanced resuscitation measures.

Case Presentation

Rescued following a shocking discovery in a garden and rushed to the hospital, this newborn experienced transient hypothermia, mild to moderate respiratory distress, and scattered skin bruises. After five days of hospital care, she was discharged in clinically stable condition with no infectious complications, displaying age-appropriate normal neurological examination findings and excellent feeding.

Conclusion

This case not only defies established expectations but also illuminates perinatal physiological adaptation complexities. It highlights a fortunate and exceptional outcome in dire circumstances, presenting a captivating enigma within scientific realms. This report sheds light on the critical importance of early intervention and timely rescue efforts in cases of neonaticide, emphasizing the significance of raising awareness and implementing prompt measures to safeguard newborns in vulnerable situations and collectively contribute to our understanding of handling similar distressing cases.

Keywords:

• buried alive
• survival
• newborn
• Uganda
• case report

Abbreviations

SC, Subcutaneous; IM, Intramuscular; IV, Intravenous; CBC, Complete Blood Cells Count; BCG, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin; °C, degrees Celsius; °F, degrees Fahrenheit; Kg, kilogram; mL, miligram; HIV, Human Immonodeficiency Virus; g, gram; mg, milligram; PCR, Polymerase Chain Reaction.

Data Sharing Statement

All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this case report.

Ethical Approval

Not applicable. The institutional approval was not required.

Informed Consent and Right of Anonymity

The informed consent for publication, including permission for the use of images, was obtained from the guardian.

Disclosure

The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work.