• PVL: brain tissue softening as a result of temporary depletion of oxygen
• In sick infants, PVL may be a result of a brain hemorrhage, blood disorder, brain infection (e.g. meningitis), severe apnea or bradycardia, or continually low blood pressure.
• Detected with head ultrasound.
• Usually only occurs in ELBW and VLBW infants.
• It may take a few weeks to determine if the PVL caused any damage, such as long-term problems with muscle movement and coordination, vision, or intellectual development.
• Following the light, noise, and skin care risk reduction procedures for IVH will also reduce the risk of PVL.

Reference:

AbbVie Corporation (Ed.). (2015). Preemie Parent Handbook (4th ed.). Canada: AbbVie Corportation.