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Suhren JT, Hussein K, Kreipe H, Schaumann N. Comparison of Prenatal and Postmortem Diagnoses from 251 Fetal Autopsies: High Rate of Placenta Pathologies, Low Rate of Discrepancies. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2023; 42:630-641. [PMID: 37129914 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2023.2201623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: In cases of intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), autopsy and placenta pathology can provide additional information to sonographic findings. We assessed the frequency of prenatally missed relevant diagnoses. Materials and methods: A retrospective evaluation of fetal autopsies from 2006 to 2021 was performed and were classified as: i) agreement, ii) cases where autopsy revealed additional findings, or iii) postmortem findings which changed the diagnosis. Results: A total of 199/251 spontaneous IUFD and 52/251 induced abortions were included. In spontaneous IUFD, placenta pathologies were the leading cause of death (89%). Full agreement was found in most cases (91% and 87% in spontaneous IUFD and induced abortion, respectively), while additional findings (7% and 12%) and major discrepancies (each 2%) were detected less frequently. Conclusion: In some cases where major findings were missed, autopsy could establish a diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Theile Suhren
- Institute of Pathology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kais Hussein
- MVZ Pathologie Hildesheim Hannover-Zentrum GmbH, Senator-Braun-Allee 35, 31135, Hildesheim
| | - Hans Kreipe
- Institute of Pathology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nora Schaumann
- Institute of Pathology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Dogan Z, Guven ESG, Albayrak M, Guven S. Prenatal Sonographic Three-dimensional Virtual Organ Computer-assisted Analysis Thymic Volume Calculation May Predict Intrauterine Growth Restriction. J Med Ultrasound 2023; 31:201-205. [PMID: 38019797 PMCID: PMC10668909 DOI: 10.4103/jmu.jmu_34_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) refers to fetuses that are small for their gestational age. There is no effective test to predict this disease. The aim of our study is whether fetal three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (USG)-assisted thymus volume (TV) measurement predicts IUGR cases. Methods Fetal 3D USG thymus measurement between 15 and 24 weeks of gestation was performed in a total of 100 women of reproductive age. Fetal TV was measured using the virtual organ computer-assisted analysis system program. All cases were followed up in terms of pregnancy complications until delivery. Results IUGR was developed in six cases in total. In cases with IUGR, mean fetal TV was found to be statistically significantly lower than in healthy cases without it. When the fetal TV was taken as 0.1645, the sensitivity was calculated as 89.5% and the specificity as 50% for predicting IUGR. The use of low fetal volume parameters is a significant and good indicator for predicting IUGR according to the binary logistic regression analysis result. Conclusion According to the results of this study, 3D fetal TV measurement may be used in routine second-trimester sonographic anomaly screening to predict the development of fetal IUGR. In this way, fetal mortality and morbidity caused by IUGR may be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeki Dogan
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Emine Seda Guvendag Guven
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Albayrak
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Guven
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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3
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Gashimova NR, Pankratyeva LL, Bitsadze VO, Khizroeva JK, Tretyakova MV, Grigoreva KN, Tsibizova VI, Gris JC, Degtyareva ND, Yakubova FE, Makatsariya AD. Inflammation and Immune Reactions in the Fetus as a Response to COVID-19 in the Mother. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4256. [PMID: 37445296 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy can harm both the mother and the unborn child. Pregnant women are highly likely to develop respiratory viral infection complications with critical conditions caused by physiological changes in the immune and cardiopulmonary systems. Asymptomatic COVID-19 in pregnant women may be accompanied by fetal inflammatory response syndrome, which has adverse consequences for the newborn's life and health. Purpose: To conduct an inflammatory response assessment of the fetus due to the effects of COVID-19 on the mother during pregnancy by determining pro-inflammatory cytokines, cell markers, T regulatory cells, T cell response, evaluation of cardiac function, and thymus size. Materials and methods: A prospective study included pregnant women (n = 92). The main group consisted of 62 pregnant women with COVID-19 infection: subgroup 1-SARS-CoV-2 PCR-positive pregnant women 4-6 weeks before delivery (n = 30); subgroup 2-SARS-CoV-2 PCR-positive earlier during pregnancy (n = 32). The control group consisted of 30 healthy pregnant women. In all pregnant women, the levels of circulating cytokines and chemokines (IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, GM-CSF, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MIP-1β, and CXCL-10) were determined in the peripheral blood and after delivery in the umbilical cord blood, and an analysis was performed of the cell markers on dendritic cells, quantitative and functional characteristics of T regulatory cells, and specific T cell responses. The levels of thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone were determined in the newborns of the studied groups, and ultrasound examinations of the thymus and echocardiography of the heart were also performed. Results: The cord blood dendritic cells of newborns born to mothers who suffered from COVID-19 4-6 weeks before delivery (subgroup 1) showed a significant increase in CD80 and CD86 expression compared to the control group (p = 0.023). In the umbilical cord blood samples of children whose mothers tested positive for COVID-19 4-6 weeks before delivery (subgroup 1), the CD4+CCR7+ T cells increased with a concomitant decrease in the proportion of naive CD4+ T cells compared with the control group (p = 0.016). Significantly higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were detected in the newborns of subgroup 1 compared to the control group. In the newborns of subgroup 1, the functional activity of T regulatory cells was suppressed, compared with the newborns of the control group (p < 0.001). In all pregnant women with a severe coronavirus infection, a weak T cell response was detected in them as well as in their newborns. In newborns whose mothers suffered a coronavirus infection, a decrease in thymus size, transient hypothyroxinemia, and changes in functional parameters according to echocardiography were revealed compared with the newborns of the control group. Conclusions: Fetal inflammatory response syndrome can occur in infants whose mothers suffered from a COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and is characterized by the activation of the fetal immune system and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The disease severity in a pregnant woman does not correlate with SIRS severity in the neonatal period. It can vary from minimal laboratory parameter changes to the development of complications in the organs and systems of the fetus and newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilufar R Gashimova
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Liudmila L Pankratyeva
- Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, 1 Samory Mashela Street, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Clinical Research Center, Vorokhobov City Clinical Hospital No 67, 2/44 Salama Adil Str., 123423 Moscow, Russia
| | - Victoria O Bitsadze
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Jamilya Kh Khizroeva
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria V Tretyakova
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Kristina N Grigoreva
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Valentina I Tsibizova
- Federal State Budgetary Institution "Almazov National Medical Research Centre", Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation 2 Akkuratova Street, 197341 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jean-Christophe Gris
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
- University of Montpellier, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonnet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Natalia D Degtyareva
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Fidan E Yakubova
- Sechenov University, 2 bldg. 4, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Str., 119991 Moscow, Russia
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Ohkuma K, Ono T, Oshima Y, So K, Tsumura K, Yamasaki F, Nakura Y, Yanagihara I, Nomiyama M, Yokoyama M. Diagnostic accuracy of amniotic fluid interleukin-6 for fetal inflammatory response syndrome. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023. [PMID: 36869638 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to clarify the diagnostic accuracy of amniotic fluid interleukin-6 for fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS). METHODS This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a single institution and targeted cases of preterm birth within 24 h after amniocentesis among singleton cases that underwent amniocentesis at our hospital for suspected intraamniotic inflammation (IAI) from gestational ages of 22-36 weeks between August 2014 and March 2020. FIRS was defined as >11.0 pg/mL of umbilical cord blood interleukin-6. RESULTS The analysis included 158 pregnant women. There was a strong correlation between amniotic fluid interleukin-6 and umbilical cord blood interleukin-6 (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of amniotic fluid interleukin-6 for FIRS was 0.93, with a cutoff value of 15.5 ng/mL, and showed high sensitivity and specificity (0.91 and 0.88, respectively). An amniotic fluid interleukin-6 cutoff value of ≥15.5 ng/mL was associated with a significant risk of FIRS (adjusted odds ratio: 27.9; 95% confidence interval: 6.3-123.0; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study show that amniotic interleukin 6 alone can be used to diagnose FIRS prenatally. While there is a need for validation, it may be possible to treat IAI while preventing damage to the central nervous and respiratory systems in the uterus by keeping the amniotic fluid interleukin-6 below the cutoff value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kana Ohkuma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Yuko Oshima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Kunio So
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Keisuke Tsumura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Fumio Yamasaki
- Department of Pathology, Japan Community Health Care Organization, Saga Central Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakura
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Itaru Yanagihara
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Nomiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Organization, Saga National Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Yokoyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
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5
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Fetal thymic-thoracic ratio in pregnancies with familial Mediterranean fever. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 282:105-109. [PMID: 36706660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the thymic-thoracic ratio (TTR) in fetuses of pregnant women with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). STUDY DESIGN This prospective case-control study was conducted with 43 pregnant women diagnosed with FMF and 43 gestational age-matched healthy controls. Pregnant women between 28 and 40 weeks who applied for antenatal care were included in the study. Healthy pregnant women whose age and gestational week matched were defined as the control group. RESULTS TTR was significantly lower in the FMF group compared to the control group. The mean TTR value was 0.34 ± 0.03 in the FMF group and 0.36 ± 0.02 in the control group (p < 0.001). TTR was significantly lower in those with FMF duration of ten years or more than those with FMF of less than ten years (p < 0.001). In addition, pregnant women who had an attack during pregnancy had lower TTR (p < 0.001). TTR was significantly associated with white blood cell count, neutrophil count, monocyte count, platelet count, mean platelet volume, C-reactive protein, red cell distribution width, and platelet‑to‑lymphocyte ratio. CONCLUSION Besides the inflammation during the FMF attacks, the ongoing subclinical inflammation between the attacks might affect the fetal thymus size. Since TTR is an easily applicable method, it can be used to evaluate fetal inflammation.
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6
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Titov VY, Anankina AA, Osipov AN, Shalina RI, Ivanova EA, Popova MV. The possibility of diagnosing intrauterine infection by the content of nitrite and non-thiolate nitroso compounds in maternal blood plasma. Klin Lab Diagn 2022; 67:633-639. [PMID: 36398771 DOI: 10.51620/0869-2084-2022-67-11-633-639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study is to develop a method for early diagnosis of intrauterine infection (IUI). A study of markers of inflammation in the venous blood of 60 pregnant women was conducted. The study was followed by a retrospective assessment of the outcomes of pregnancies and childbirth. Of these, 33 patients with a gestation period of more than 37 weeks (full-term pregnancy) and, accordingly, 27 patients from whom the blood sample was taken at a period of less than 37 weeks - patients with the threat of premature birth (PB). PB is the main factor contributing to the development of IUI. 27 patients were diagnosed with premature rupture of the membranes (PROM). Of these, 15 are with the threat of PB. 8 of them had a diagnosed IUI. In all cases of diagnosed PROM, including those with IUI, the concentration of nitrite and nontiolate nitroso compounds (NO2-+RNO) in the mother's blood plasma was 2.3±1.2 µM, while normally it does not exceed 0.1 µM (p<0.001). Regardless of the duration of pregnancy. The use of antibiotics in the case of PROM contributed to the normalization of the concentration (NO2-+RNO). Therefore, increasing of this indicator is result of bacterial infection. Indications of other markers of inflammation: the number of leukocytes in venous blood and in a smear of vaginal contents, the level of C-RB did not significantly change in both PROM and IUI (p>0.1). Since the concentration index (NO2-+RNO) increased in almost all cases of PREM, unlike all other clinical and biochemical indicators used in modern medicine, there is an obvious sense of its use for the current monitoring of the health of pregnant women. But it is still impossible to say unequivocally about the possibility of monitoring the fetal health by concentration (NO2-+RNO) in the mother's blood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A A Anankina
- Russian National Research Medical University n.a. N.I. Pirogov
| | - A N Osipov
- Russian National Research Medical University n.a. N.I. Pirogov
| | - R I Shalina
- Russian National Research Medical University n.a. N.I. Pirogov
| | - E A Ivanova
- Russian National Research Medical University n.a. N.I. Pirogov
| | - M V Popova
- Russian National Research Medical University n.a. N.I. Pirogov
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Hall M, Hutter J, Suff N, Zampieri CA, Tribe RM, Shennan A, Rutherford M, Story L. Antenatal diagnosis of chorioamnionitis: A review of the potential role of fetal and placental imaging. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:1049-1058. [PMID: 35670265 PMCID: PMC9543023 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Chorioamnionitis is present in up to 70% of spontaneous preterm births. It is defined as an acute inflammation of the chorion, with or without involvement of the amnion, and is evidence of a maternal immunological response to infection. A fetal inflammatory response can coexist and is diagnosed on placental histopathology postnatally. Fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) is associated with poorer fetal and neonatal outcomes. The only antenatal diagnostic test is amniocentesis which carries risks of miscarriage or preterm birth. Imaging of the fetal immune system, in particular the thymus and the spleen, and the placenta may give valuable information antenatally regarding the diagnosis of fetal inflammatory response. While ultrasound is largely limited to structural information, MRI can complement this with functional information that may provide insight into the metabolic activities of the fetal immune system and placenta. This review discusses fetal and placental imaging in pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis and their potential future use in achieving non-invasive antenatal diagnosis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Hall
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jana Hutter
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Natalie Suff
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Carla Avena Zampieri
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Shennan
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mary Rutherford
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa Story
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
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8
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Karaşin SS, Akselim B, Tosun Ö, Karaşin ZT. Decreased fetal thymus size at 24 weeks gestation by ultrasound measurement in gestational diabetes mellitus fetal thymus examination for diabetes. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:1348-1354. [PMID: 35304802 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to evaluate the difference in fetal thymus diameter, which we measured ultrasonographically, between the healthy pregnant group and the pregnant group with gestational diabetes. METHOD Fetal thymus and thymus/thorax ratio parameters were assessed in this case-control study. Patients were examined in two groups. They included 49 diabetics (study group) women and 71 nondiabetic (control group). We performed a binary logistic regression analysis to determine the predictive value of ultrasonographic measurements. We completed the receiver curve characteristic analysis to evaluate the cut-off thymus diameter. RESULTS The median age of pregnant women was 27. Thymus diameter and thymus-thorax ratio were smaller in fetuses of diabetic mothers than in the nondiabetic group (p <0.05). Thymus diameter was found to be more predictive of gestational diabetes prediction (p: 0.019). There was no correlation between fasting blood glucose and thymus diameter. CONCLUSION Decreased fetal thymus anterior-posterior diameter seems to be associated with diabetic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Süleyman Serkan Karaşin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University Bursa Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Burak Akselim
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University Bursa Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Öznur Tosun
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University Bursa Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Zeynep T Karaşin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University Bursa Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
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9
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Goncu Ayhan S, Turgut E, Oluklu D, Ozden Tokalioglu E, Menekse Beser D, Moraloglu Tekin O, Sahin D. Influence of Covid-19 infection on fetal thymus size after recovery. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:139-143. [PMID: 34881540 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2021-0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the long-term effects of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on the fetal immune system by fetal thymus size measurements with ultrasound (USG). METHODS This prospective study was conducted in the Turkish Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital between November 1, 2020 and April 1, 2021, with recovered, pregnant women, four weeks after they had been confirmed for the SARS-CoV-2 infection by real-time polymerase-chain-reaction (RT-PCR). COVID-19 recovered (CR) pregnant women compared with age-matched pregnant controls in terms of demographic features, fetal thymic-thoracic ratio (TTR), and laboratory parameters. RESULTS There was no difference in demographic features between the two groups. TTR found significantly lower in the CR group than the control group (p=0.001). The fetal TTR showed a significant and moderate correlation with maternal monocyte counts, monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and red cell distribution width (RDW); while it did not correlate with lymphocyte counts, c-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin levels. CONCLUSIONS The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) reduces fetal thymus size in pregnant women with mild or moderate symptoms after recovery from the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sule Goncu Ayhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ezgi Turgut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Oluklu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Eda Ozden Tokalioglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dilek Menekse Beser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Moraloglu Tekin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
- University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dilek Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
- University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
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10
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Para R, Romero R, Miller D, Galaz J, Done B, Peyvandipour A, Gershater M, Tao L, Motomura K, Ruden DM, Isherwood J, Jung E, Kanninen T, Pique-Regi R, Tarca AL, Gomez-Lopez N. The Distinct Immune Nature of the Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome Type I and Type II. Immunohorizons 2021; 5:735-751. [PMID: 34521696 PMCID: PMC9394103 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2100047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) is strongly associated with neonatal morbidity and mortality and can be classified as type I or type II. Clinically, FIRS type I and type II are considered as distinct syndromes, yet the molecular underpinnings of these fetal inflammatory responses are not well understood because of their low prevalence and the difficulty of postdelivery diagnosis. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing of human cord blood samples from preterm neonates diagnosed with FIRS type I or FIRS type II. We found that FIRS type I was characterized by an upregulation of host immune responses, including neutrophil and monocyte functions, together with a proinflammatory cytokine storm and a downregulation of T cell processes. In contrast, FIRS type II comprised a mild chronic inflammatory response involving perturbation of HLA transcripts, suggestive of fetal semiallograft rejection. Integrating single-cell RNA sequencing-derived signatures with bulk transcriptomic data confirmed that FIRS type I immune responses were mainly driven by monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. Last, tissue- and cell-specific signatures derived from the BioGPS Gene Atlas further corroborated the role of myeloid cells originating from the bone marrow in FIRS type I. Collectively, these data provide evidence that FIRS type I and FIRS type II are driven by distinct immune mechanisms; whereas the former involves the innate limb of immunity consistent with host defense, the latter resembles a process of semiallograft rejection. These findings shed light on the fetal immune responses caused by infection or alloreactivity that can lead to deleterious consequences in neonatal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Para
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University, Miami, FL
| | - Derek Miller
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Bogdan Done
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Azam Peyvandipour
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Meyer Gershater
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Li Tao
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Kenichiro Motomura
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Douglas M Ruden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Jenna Isherwood
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Tomi Kanninen
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roger Pique-Regi
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Adi L Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, MI; and
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
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11
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Jung E, Romero R, Yeo L, Diaz-Primera R, Marin-Concha J, Para R, Lopez AM, Pacora P, Gomez-Lopez N, Yoon BH, Kim CJ, Berry SM, Hsu CD. The fetal inflammatory response syndrome: the origins of a concept, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and obstetrical implications. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 25:101146. [PMID: 33164775 PMCID: PMC10580248 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2020.101146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The fetus can deploy a local or systemic inflammatory response when exposed to microorganisms or, alternatively, to non-infection-related stimuli (e.g., danger signals or alarmins). The term "Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome" (FIRS) was coined to describe a condition characterized by evidence of a systemic inflammatory response, frequently a result of the activation of the innate limb of the immune response. FIRS can be diagnosed by an increased concentration of umbilical cord plasma or serum acute phase reactants such as C-reactive protein or cytokines (e.g., interleukin-6). Pathologic evidence of a systemic fetal inflammatory response indicates the presence of funisitis or chorionic vasculitis. FIRS was first described in patients at risk for intraamniotic infection who presented preterm labor with intact membranes or preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes. However, FIRS can also be observed in patients with sterile intra-amniotic inflammation, alloimmunization (e.g., Rh disease), and active autoimmune disorders. Neonates born with FIRS have a higher rate of complications, such as early-onset neonatal sepsis, intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, and death, than those born without FIRS. Survivors are at risk for long-term sequelae that may include bronchopulmonary dysplasia, neurodevelopmental disorders, such as cerebral palsy, retinopathy of prematurity, and sensorineuronal hearing loss. Experimental FIRS can be induced by intra-amniotic administration of bacteria, microbial products (such as endotoxin), or inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-1), and animal models have provided important insights about the mechanisms responsible for multiple organ involvement and dysfunction. A systemic fetal inflammatory response is thought to be adaptive, but, on occasion, may become dysregulated whereby a fetal cytokine storm ensues and can lead to multiple organ dysfunction and even fetal death if delivery does not occur ("rescued by birth"). Thus, the onset of preterm labor in this context can be considered to have survival value. The evidence so far suggests that FIRS may compound the effects of immaturity and neonatal inflammation, thus increasing the risk of neonatal complications and long-term morbidity. Modulation of a dysregulated fetal inflammatory response by the administration of antimicrobial agents, anti-inflammatory agents, or cell-based therapy holds promise to reduce infant morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lami Yeo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ramiro Diaz-Primera
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Julio Marin-Concha
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Robert Para
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ashley M Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Percy Pacora
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Bo Hyun Yoon
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Stanley M Berry
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chaur-Dong Hsu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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12
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Exposure to systemic and intrauterine inflammation leads to decreased pup survival via different placental mechanisms. J Reprod Immunol 2019; 133:52-62. [PMID: 31280130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Exposure to systemic maternal inflammation (i.e., maternal sepsis, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus, or pyelonephritis) and intrauterine (IU) inflammation (i.e., chorioamnionitis or preterm labor) have been associated with adverse perinatal sequelae. Whether systemic and localized inflammation leading to adverse outcomes have similar placental mechanisms remain unclear. METHOD OF STUDY We conducted a study by murine modeling systemic and localized IU inflammation with injections of either intraperitoneal (IP) or IU interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and compared fetoplacental hemodynamic changes, cytokine/chemokine expression, and fetal loss. RESULTS IU IL-1β exposure reduced offspring survival by 31.1% and IP IL-1β exposure by 34.5% when compared with control pups. Despite this similar outcome in offspring survival, Doppler analysis revealed a stark difference: IU group displayed worsened fetoplacental hemodynamic changes while no differences were found between IP and control groups. While both IU and IP groups had increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, specific gene expression trends differed between the two groups, once again highlighting their mechanistic differences. CONCLUSION While both IP and IU IL-1β exposure similarly affected pup survival, only IU inflammation resulted in fetoplacental hemodynamic changes. We speculate that exposure to maternal systemic and IU inflammation plays a key role in fetal injury by utilizing different placental inflammatory pathways and mechanisms.
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Caissutti C, Familiari A, Khalil A, Flacco ME, Manzoli L, Scambia G, Cagnacci A, D'antonio F. Small fetal thymus and adverse obstetrical outcome: a systematic review and a meta-analysis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2017; 97:111-121. [PMID: 29057456 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to explore the association between small fetal thymus on ultrasound and adverse obstetrical outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS Medline, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were searched. Primary outcome was the risk of preterm birth before 37 and 34 weeks of gestation in fetuses with, compared to those without, a small thymus on ultrasound. SECONDARY OUTCOMES occurrence of chorioamnionitis, intrauterine growth restriction, neonatal sepsis, gestational age at birth, birthweight, neonatal morbidity and preeclampsia. RESULTS Twelve studies including 1744 fetuses who had ultrasound assessment of thymus during pregnancy were included. Women with preterm premature rupture of the membranes or with preterm labor were at higher risk of preterm birth before 37 weeks (p = 0.01), or before 34 weeks (p < 0.001) for fetuses with a small fetal thymus compared to those without a small thymus, and the risk of chorioamnionitis was higher when the thymus was small (p < 0.001). Fetuses with small thymus were not at higher risk of intrauterine growth restriction (p = 0.3). A small thymus increased the risk of neonatal sepsis (p = 0.007) and morbidity (p = 0.003), but not the risk of preeclampsia (p = 0.9). CONCLUSIONS A small fetal thymus is associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, chorioamnionitis, neonatal sepsis and morbidity, but not with intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Caissutti
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, DISM, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Udine, Udine
| | - Alessandra Familiari
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal medicine Unit, Division of Developmental Sciences, St. George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Lamberto Manzoli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, DISM, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Udine, Udine
| | - Francesco D'antonio
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT - the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Mastrolia SA, Erez O, Loverro G, Di Naro E, Weintraub AY, Tirosh D, Baron J, Hershkovitz R. Ultrasonographic approach to diagnosis of fetal inflammatory response syndrome: a tool for at-risk fetuses? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:9-20. [PMID: 26821337 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.01.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Preterm parturition is a syndrome that may result from many underlying mechanisms. Infection and inflammation are the prominent ones. Intrauterine infection and inflammation have an effect akin to sepsis, and that is similar to systemic inflammatory response in adults. Indeed, there is evidence to support the association of a fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) to systemic infection and inflammation. The utilization of invasive procedures for the prenatal diagnosis of FIRS is associated with a risk for complications resulting from the invasive method. The progress in the imaging quality of obstetrical ultrasound and the development of novel methods for functional anatomical assessment of the fetal organs may help to identify, noninvasively, fetuses at risk for FIRS in patients presenting with preterm labor. We review the studies describing advanced sonographic modalities and the imaging findings in the heart, thymus, kidney, adrenal glands, and spleen of these fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Andrea Mastrolia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Bari, Italy; US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
| | - Offer Erez
- Maternity Department D and Obstetrical Day Care Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, School of Medicine, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Giuseppe Loverro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Bari, Italy
| | - Edoardo Di Naro
- US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Bari, Italy
| | - Adi Yehuda Weintraub
- US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Dan Tirosh
- US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Joel Baron
- US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Reli Hershkovitz
- US Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
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15
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Brandt JS, Bastek JA, Wang E, Purisch S, Schwartz N. Second-Trimester Sonographic Thymus Measurements Are Not Associated With Preterm Birth and Other Adverse Obstetric Outcomes. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2016; 35:989-997. [PMID: 27072160 DOI: 10.7863/ultra.15.06095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have demonstrated an association between adverse obstetric outcomes, such as preterm birth, and in utero inflammation. The fetal thymus, which can be visualized in the anterior mediastinum on obstetric sonography, may involute in response to such inflammation and thus may identify pregnancies at increased risk for these outcomes. We therefore sought to determine whether second-trimester fetal thymus measurements are associated with preterm birth. METHODS Transabdominal fetal thymus measurements were prospectively obtained in singleton pregnancies at gestational ages of 18 weeks to 23 weeks 6 days during a 5-month period. The transverse and anterorposterior thymus diameters and the thymic-thoracic ratio were measured. Delivery outcomes were collected from our clinical database. The primary outcome was preterm birth, which we defined as delivery between 24 weeks and 36 weeks 6 days. Small for gestational age (SGA) and pregnancy-related hypertension, which are adverse obstetric outcomes that may also be associated with in utero inflammation, were included as secondary outcomes. RESULTS We included 520 patients with thymus measurements and obstetric outcome data. The prevalence of preterm birth was 12.3% (n = 64). None of the thymus measurements were associated with preterm birth. Similarly, there was no association between thymus measurements and SGA or pregnancy-related hypertension. CONCLUSIONS Sonographic assessment of the second-trimester fetal thymus did not identify patients at increased risk for preterm birth, SGA, and pregnancy-related hypertension. Routine thymus measurements during the second-trimester anatomic scan are not clinically useful for prediction of preterm birth and other adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin S Brandt
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA.
| | - Jamie A Bastek
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
| | - Eileen Wang
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
| | - Stephanie Purisch
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
| | - Nadav Schwartz
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
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16
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Kim CJ, Romero R, Chaemsaithong P, Chaiyasit N, Yoon BH, Kim YM. Acute chorioamnionitis and funisitis: definition, pathologic features, and clinical significance. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:S29-52. [PMID: 26428501 PMCID: PMC4774647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 588] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Acute inflammatory lesions of the placenta consist of diffuse infiltration of neutrophils at different sites in the organ. These lesions include acute chorioamnionitis, funisitis, and chorionic vasculitis and represent a host response (maternal or fetal) to a chemotactic gradient in the amniotic cavity. While acute chorioamnionitis is evidence of a maternal host response, funisitis and chorionic vasculitis represent fetal inflammatory responses. Intraamniotic infection generally has been considered to be the cause of acute chorioamnionitis and funisitis; however, recent evidence indicates that "sterile" intraamniotic inflammation, which occurs in the absence of demonstrable microorganisms induced by "danger signals," is frequently associated with these lesions. In the context of intraamniotic infection, chemokines (such as interleukin-8 and granulocyte chemotactic protein) establish a gradient that favors the migration of neutrophils from the maternal or fetal circulation into the chorioamniotic membranes or umbilical cord, respectively. Danger signals that are released during the course of cellular stress or cell death can also induce the release of neutrophil chemokines. The prevalence of chorioamnionitis is a function of gestational age at birth, and present in 3-5% of term placentas and in 94% of placentas delivered at 21-24 weeks of gestation. The frequency is higher in patients with spontaneous labor, preterm labor, clinical chorioamnionitis (preterm or term), or ruptured membranes. Funisitis and chorionic vasculitis are the hallmarks of the fetal inflammatory response syndrome, a condition characterized by an elevation in the fetal plasma concentration of interleukin-6, and associated with the impending onset of preterm labor, a higher rate of neonatal morbidity (after adjustment for gestational age), and multiorgan fetal involvement. This syndrome is the counterpart of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome in adults: a risk factor for short- and long-term complications (ie, sterile inflammation in fetuses, neonatal sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, periventricular leukomalacia, and cerebral palsy). This article reviews the definition, pathogenesis, grading and staging, and clinical significance of the most common lesions in placental disease. Illustrations of the lesions and diagrams of the mechanisms of disease are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Jai Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea; Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI.
| | - Piya Chaemsaithong
- Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Noppadol Chaiyasit
- Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Bo Hyun Yoon
- Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon Mee Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, Program for Perinatal Research and Obstetrics, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI; Department of Pathology, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
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