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Pastor FM, de Melo Ocarino N, Silva JF, Reis AMS, Serakides R. Bone development in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction caused by maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunctions. Bone 2024; 186:117169. [PMID: 38880170 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2024.117169] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) affects a large proportion of infants, particularly in underdeveloped countries. Among the main causes of IUGR, maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunction is highlighted, either due to its high incidence or due to the severity of the immediate and mediated changes that these dysfunctions cause in the fetus and the mother. Although the effects of endocrine and metabolic disorders have been widely researched, there are still no reviews that bring together and summarize the effects of these conditions on bone development in cases of IUGR. Therefore, the present literature review was conducted with the aim of discussing bone changes observed in fetuses with IUGR caused by maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunction. The main endocrine dysfunctions that occur with IUGR include maternal hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and hypoparathyroidism. Diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders, and obesity are the most important maternal metabolic dysfunctions that compromise fetal growth. The bone changes reported in the fetus are, for the most part, due to damage to cell proliferation and differentiation, as well as failures in the synthesis and mineralization of the extracellular matrix, which results in shortening and fragility of the bones. Some maternal dysfunctions, such as hyperthyroidism, have been widely studied, whereas conditions such as hypoparathyroidism and gestational hypertensive disorders require further study regarding the mechanisms underlying the development of bone changes. Similarly, there is a gap in the literature regarding changes related to intramembranous ossification, as most published articles only describe changes in endochondral bone formation associated with IUGR. Furthermore, there is a need for more research aimed at elucidating the late postnatal changes that occur in the skeletons of individuals affected by IUGR and their possible relationships with adult diseases, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Martins Pastor
- Departamento de Cínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Natália de Melo Ocarino
- Departamento de Cínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, 45662-900 Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Amanda Maria Sena Reis
- Departamento de Patologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rogéria Serakides
- Departamento de Cínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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2
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van Klink JMM, van Zwet EW, Lopriore E, Roest AAW, Haak MC, Slaghekke F, de Bruin C, Groene SG. Does Catch-up Growth Come with a Cognitive Cost? Cognitive Outcome and Growth Patterns in Growth Discordant Identical Twins. J Pediatr 2024:114223. [PMID: 39097263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether it is the magnitude of early postnatal catch-up growth (CUG) in response to fetal growth restriction (FGR) or the FGR itself that relates to cognitive outcome in a model of monochorionic twins discordant for fetal growth. STUDY DESIGN This analysis is part of the LEMON study, a cohort study including all monochorionic twins with selective FGR aged 3 through 17 years. Growth measurements as documented by our primary care system were collected retrospectively. An age-appropriate neurodevelopmental test was performed generating a full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ). CUG at two years was calculated as (weight [kg] at two years - birth weight [kg]). We used a multivariable regression model investigating the association between FSIQ (outcome) and birth weight z-score, gestational age at birth and CUG at two years (predictors). Generalized estimating equations accounted for the fact that observations between co-twins are not independent. RESULTS Median age at follow-up of the 46 included twin pairs was 11 (IQR 8-13) years. Birth weight z-score and gestational age at birth were significantly associated with FSIQ, with β-coefficients of 5.897 (95% CI 3.382-8.411), and 2.589 (95% CI 1.227-3.951), respectively (p<0.0001). Adjusted for birth weight z-score and gestational age, CUG in the first two years after birth was not significantly associated with FSIQ (β-coefficient 0.108 (95% CI -1.373-1.590), p=0.886). CONCLUSION Our results, combining detailed growth measurements and neurodevelopmental follow-up in a discordant identical twin model, demonstrate that FGR itself rather than early postnatal CUG has negative consequences for cognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanine M M van Klink
- Neonatology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Erik W van Zwet
- Medical Statistics, Dept. of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Enrico Lopriore
- Neonatology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Arno A W Roest
- Pediatric Cardiology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Monique C Haak
- Fetal Therapy, Dept. of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Femke Slaghekke
- Fetal Therapy, Dept. of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Christiaan de Bruin
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sophie G Groene
- Neonatology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Spencer RN, Bissell MM. Editorial to "Fetal MRI-Based Body and Adiposity Quantification for Small for Gestational Age Perinatal Risk Stratification". J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 60:775-776. [PMID: 37987550 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca N Spencer
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Malenka M Bissell
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Morris RK, Johnstone E, Lees C, Morton V, Smith G. Investigation and Care of a Small-for-Gestational-Age Fetus and a Growth Restricted Fetus (Green-top Guideline No. 31). BJOG 2024; 131:e31-e80. [PMID: 38740546 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Key recommendations
All women should be assessed at booking (by 14 weeks) for risk factors for fetal growth restriction (FGR) to identify those who require increased surveillance using an agreed pathway [Grade GPP]. Findings at the midtrimester anomaly scan should be incorporated into the fetal growth risk assessment and the risk assessment updated throughout pregnancy. [Grade GPP]
Reduce smoking in pregnancy by identifying women who smoke with the assistance of carbon monoxide (CO) testing and ensuring in‐house treatment from a trained tobacco dependence advisor is offered to all pregnant women who smoke, using an opt‐out referral process. [Grade GPP]
Women at risk of pre‐eclampsia and/or placental dysfunction should take aspirin 150 mg once daily at night from 12+0–36+0 weeks of pregnancy to reduce their chance of small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) and FGR. [Grade A]
Uterine artery Dopplers should be carried out between 18+0 and 23+6 weeks for women at high risk of fetal growth disorders [Grade B]. In a woman with normal uterine artery Doppler and normal fetal biometry at the midtrimester scan, serial ultrasound scans for fetal biometry can commence at 32 weeks. Women with an abnormal uterine artery Doppler (mean pulsatility index > 95th centile) should commence ultrasound scans at 24+0–28+6 weeks based on individual history. [Grade B]
Women who are at low risk of FGR should have serial measurement of symphysis fundal height (SFH) at each antenatal appointment after 24+0 weeks of pregnancy (no more frequently than every 2 weeks). The first measurement should be carried out by 28+6 weeks. [Grade C]
Women in the moderate risk category are at risk of late onset FGR so require serial ultrasound scan assessment of fetal growth commencing at 32+0 weeks. For the majority of women, a scan interval of four weeks until birth is appropriate. [Grade B]
Maternity providers should ensure that they clearly identify the reference charts to plot SFH, individual biometry and estimated fetal weight (EFW) measurements to calculate centiles. For individual biometry measurements the method used for measurement should be the same as those used in the development of the individual biometry and fetal growth chart [Grade GPP]. For EFW the Hadlock three parameter model should be used. [Grade C]
Maternity providers should ensure that they have guidance that promotes the use of standard planes of acquisition and calliper placement when performing ultrasound scanning for fetal growth assessment. Quality control of images and measurements should be undertaken. [Grade C]
Ultrasound biometry should be carried out every 2 weeks in fetuses identified to be SGA [Grade C]. Umbilical artery Doppler is the primary surveillance tool and should be carried out at the point of diagnosis of SGA and during follow‐up as a minimum every 2 weeks. [Grade B]
In fetuses with an EFW between the 3rd and 10th centile, other features must be present for birth to be recommended prior to 39+0 weeks, either maternal (maternal medical conditions or concerns regarding fetal movements) or fetal compromise (a diagnosis of FGR based on Doppler assessment, fetal growth velocity or a concern on cardiotocography [CTG]) [Grade C]. For fetuses with an EFW or abdominal circumference less than the 10th centile where FGR has been excluded, birth or the initiation of induction of labour should be considered at 39+0 weeks after discussion with the woman and her partner/family/support network. Birth should occur by 39+6 weeks. [Grade B]
Pregnancies with early FGR (prior to 32+0 weeks) should be monitored and managed with input from tertiary level units with the highest level neonatal care. Care should be multidisciplinary by neonatology and obstetricians with fetal medicine expertise, particularly when extremely preterm (before 28 weeks) [Grade GPP]. Fetal biometry in FGR should be repeated every 2 weeks [Grade B]. Assessment of fetal wellbeing can include multiple modalities but must include computerised CTG and/or ductus venous. [Grade B]
In pregnancies with late FGR, birth should be initiated from 37+0 weeks to be completed by 37+6 weeks [Grade A]. Decisions for birth should be based on fetal wellbeing assessments or maternal indication. [Grade GPP]
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Rabinowich A, Avisdris N, Yehuda B, Zilberman A, Graziani T, Neeman B, Specktor-Fadida B, Link-Sourani D, Wexler Y, Herzlich J, Krajden Haratz K, Joskowicz L, Ben Sira L, Hiersch L, Ben Bashat D. Fetal MRI-Based Body and Adiposity Quantification for Small for Gestational Age Perinatal Risk Stratification. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 60:767-774. [PMID: 37982367 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses are at risk for perinatal adverse outcomes. Fetal body composition reflects the fetal nutrition status and hold promise as potential prognostic indicator. MRI quantification of fetal anthropometrics may enhance SGA risk stratification. HYPOTHESIS Smaller, leaner fetuses are malnourished and will experience unfavorable outcomes. STUDY TYPE Prospective. POPULATION 40 SGA fetuses, 26 (61.9%) females: 10/40 (25%) had obstetric interventions due to non-reassuring fetal status (NRFS), and 17/40 (42.5%) experienced adverse neonatal events (CANO). Participants underwent MRI between gestational ages 30 + 2 and 37 + 2. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE 3-T, True Fast Imaging with Steady State Free Precession (TruFISP) and T1-weighted two-point Dixon (T1W Dixon) sequences. ASSESSMENT Total body volume (TBV), fat signal fraction (FSF), and the fat-to-body volumes ratio (FBVR) were extracted from TruFISP and T1W Dixon images, and computed from automatic fetal body and subcutaneous fat segmentations by deep learning. Subjects were followed until hospital discharge, and obstetric interventions and neonatal adverse events were recorded. STATISTICAL TESTS Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions for the association between TBV, FBVR, and FSF and interventions for NRFS and CANO. Fisher's exact test was used to measure the association between sonographic FGR criteria and perinatal outcomes. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy were calculated. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS FBVR (odds ratio [OR] 0.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2-0.76) and FSF (OR 0.95, CI 0.91-0.99) were linked with NRFS interventions. Furthermore, TBV (OR 0.69, CI 0.56-0.86) and FSF (OR 0.96, CI 0.93-0.99) were linked to CANO. The FBVR sensitivity/specificity for obstetric interventions was 85.7%/87.5%, and the TBV sensitivity/specificity for CANO was 82.35%/86.4%. The sonographic criteria sensitivity/specificity for obstetric interventions was 100%/33.3% and insignificant for CANO (P = 0.145). DATA CONCLUSION Reduced TBV and FBVR may be associated with higher rates of obstetric interventions for NRFS and CANO. EVIDENCE LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviad Rabinowich
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Radiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Netanell Avisdris
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Bossmat Yehuda
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ayala Zilberman
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Hospital for Women, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamir Graziani
- Department of Radiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Bar Neeman
- Department of Radiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Bella Specktor-Fadida
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dafna Link-Sourani
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yair Wexler
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacky Herzlich
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Karina Krajden Haratz
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Hospital for Women, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Leo Joskowicz
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liat Ben Sira
- Department of Radiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Liran Hiersch
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Hospital for Women, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Ben Bashat
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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6
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Mappa I, Marra MC, Pietrolucci ME, Lu JLA, D'Antonio F, Rizzo G. Midline structures and cortical development in late-onset fetal growth restriction according to Doppler status: prospective study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:228-235. [PMID: 38279964 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fetuses with late-onset growth restriction (FGR) have a higher risk of suboptimal neurocognitive performance after birth. Previous studies have reported that impaired brain and cortical development can start in utero. The primary aim of this study was to report midline structure growth and cortical development in fetuses with late-onset FGR according to its severity; the secondary aim was to elucidate whether the severity of FGR, as defined by the presence of abnormal Doppler findings, plays a role in affecting brain growth and maturation. METHODS This was a prospective observational study that included fetuses with late-onset FGR (defined according to the Delphi FGR criteria) undergoing neurosonography between 32 and 34 weeks' gestation. Midline structure (corpus callosum (CC) and cerebellar vermis (CV)) length and cortical development, including the depth of the Sylvian (SF), parieto-occipital (POF) and calcarine (CF) fissures, were compared between late-onset FGR, small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) fetuses. Subgroup analysis according to the severity of FGR (normal vs abnormal fetal Doppler) was also performed. Univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS A total of 52 late-onset FGR fetuses with normal Doppler findings, 60 late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings, 64 SGA fetuses and 100 AGA fetuses were included in the analysis. When comparing AGA controls with SGA fetuses, late-onset FGR fetuses with normal Doppler findings and late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings, there was a progressive and significant reduction in the absolute values of the following parameters: CC length (median (interquartile range (IQR)), 43.5 (28.9-56.1) mm vs 41.9 (27.8-51.8) mm vs 38.5 (29.1-50.5) mm vs 31.7 (23.8-40.2) mm; K = 26.68; P < 0.0001), SF depth (median (IQR), 14.5 (10.7-16.8) mm vs 12.7 (9.8-15.1) mm vs 11.9 (9.1-13.4) mm vs 8.3 (6.7-10.3) mm; K = 75.82; P < 0.0001), POF depth (median (IQR), 8.6 (6.3-11.1) mm vs 8.1 (5.6-10.4) mm vs 7.8 (6.1-9.3) mm vs 6.6 (4.2-8.0) mm; K = 45.06; P < 0.0001) and CF depth (median (IQR), 9.3 (6.7-11.5) mm vs 8.2 (5.7-10.7) mm vs 7.7 (5.2-9.4) mm vs 6.3 (4.5-7.2) mm; K = 46.14; P < 0.0001). Absolute CV length was significantly higher in AGA fetuses compared with all other groups, although the same progressive pattern was not noted (median (IQR), 24.9 (17.6-29.2) mm vs 21.6 (15.2-26.1) mm vs 19.1 (13.8-25.9) mm vs 21.0 (13.5-25.8) mm; K = 16.72; P = 0.0008). When the neurosonographic variables were corrected for fetal head circumference, a significant difference in the CC length and SF, POF and CF depths, but not CV length, was observed only in late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings when compared with AGA and SGA fetuses. CONCLUSIONS Fetuses with late-onset FGR had shorter CC length and delayed cortical development when compared with AGA fetuses. After controlling for fetal head circumference, these differences remained significant only in late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler. These findings support the existence of a link between brain development and impaired placental function. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M C Marra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M E Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - J L A Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - F D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - G Rizzo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
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Krause BJ, Paz AA, Garrud TAC, Peñaloza E, Vega-Tapia F, Ford SG, Niu Y, Giussani DA. Epigenetic regulation by hypoxia, N-acetylcysteine and hydrogen sulphide of the fetal vasculature in growth restricted offspring: A study in humans and chicken embryos. J Physiol 2024; 602:3833-3852. [PMID: 38985827 DOI: 10.1113/jp286266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a common outcome in human suboptimal gestation and is related to prenatal origins of cardiovascular dysfunction in offspring. Despite this, therapy of human translational potential has not been identified. Using human umbilical and placental vessels and the chicken embryo model, we combined cellular, molecular, and functional studies to determine whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) protect cardiovascular function in growth-restricted unborn offspring. In human umbilical and placental arteries from control or FGR pregnancy and in vessels from near-term chicken embryos incubated under normoxic or hypoxic conditions, we determined the expression of the H2S gene CTH (i.e. cystathionine γ-lyase) (via quantitative PCR), the production of H2S (enzymatic activity), the DNA methylation profile (pyrosequencing) and vasodilator reactivity (wire myography) in the presence and absence of NAC treatment. The data show that FGR and hypoxia increased CTH expression in the embryonic/fetal vasculature in both species. NAC treatment increased aortic CTH expression and H2S production and enhanced third-order femoral artery dilator responses to the H2S donor sodium hydrosulphide in chicken embryos. NAC treatment also restored impaired endothelial relaxation in human third-to-fourth order chorionic arteries from FGR pregnancies and in third-order femoral arteries from hypoxic chicken embryos. This NAC-induced protection against endothelial dysfunction in hypoxic chicken embryos was mediated via nitric oxide independent mechanisms. Both developmental hypoxia and NAC promoted vascular changes in CTH DNA and NOS3 methylation patterns in chicken embryos. Combined, therefore, the data support that the effects of NAC and H2S offer a powerful mechanism of human translational potential against fetal cardiovascular dysfunction in complicated pregnancy. KEY POINTS: Gestation complicated by chronic fetal hypoxia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) increases a prenatal origin of cardiovascular disease in offspring, increasing interest in antenatal therapy to prevent against a fetal origin of cardiovascular dysfunction. We investigated the effects between N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in the vasculature in FGR human pregnancy and in chronically hypoxic chicken embryos. Combining cellular, molecular, epigenetic and functional studies, we show that the vascular expression and synthesis of H2S is enhanced in hypoxic and FGR unborn offspring in both species and this acts to protect their vasculature. Therefore, the NAC/H2S pathway offers a powerful therapeutic mechanism of human translational potential against fetal cardiovascular dysfunction in complicated pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo J Krause
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Adolfo A Paz
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tessa A C Garrud
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Estefanía Peñaloza
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fabian Vega-Tapia
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sage G Ford
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Youguo Niu
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- BHF Cardiovascular Centre for Research Excellence, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Strategic Research Initiative in Reproduction, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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8
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Hristova MD, Krishnan T, Rossi CA, Nouza J, White A, Peebles DM, Sebire NJ, Zachary IC, David AL, Vaughan OR. Maternal Uterine Artery Adenoviral Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (Ad.VEGF-A 165) Gene Therapy Normalises Fetal Brain Growth and Microglial Activation in Nutrient Restricted Pregnant Guinea Pigs. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2199-2208. [PMID: 38907125 PMCID: PMC11289362 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01604-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, and neurodevelopmental and structural brain deficits in the infant. It is currently untreatable. We hypothesised that treating the maternal uterine artery with vascular endothelial growth factor adenoviral gene therapy (Ad.VEGF-A165) normalises offspring brain weight and prevents brain injury in a guinea pig model of FGR. Pregnant guinea pigs were fed a restricted diet before and after conception and received Ad.VEGF-A165 (1 × 1010 viral particles, n = 18) or vehicle (n = 18), delivered to the external surface of the uterine arteries, in mid-pregnancy. Pregnant, ad libitum-fed controls received vehicle only (n = 10). Offspring brain weight and histological indices of brain injury were assessed at term and 5-months postnatally. At term, maternal nutrient restriction reduced fetal brain weight and increased microglial ramification in all brain regions but did not alter indices of cell death, astrogliosis or myelination. Ad.VEGF-A165 increased brain weight and reduced microglial ramification in fetuses of nutrient restricted dams. In adult offspring, maternal nutrient restriction did not alter brain weight or markers of brain injury, whilst Ad.VEGF-A165 increased microglial ramification and astrogliosis in the hippocampus and thalamus, respectively. Ad.VEGF-A165 did not affect cell death or myelination in the fetal or offspring brain. Ad.VEGF-A165 normalises brain growth and markers of brain injury in guinea pig fetuses exposed to maternal nutrient restriction and may be a potential intervention to improve childhood neurodevelopmental outcomes in pregnancies complicated by FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Hristova
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - T Krishnan
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - C A Rossi
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - J Nouza
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - A White
- Biological Services Unit, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - D M Peebles
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - N J Sebire
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - I C Zachary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - A L David
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - O R Vaughan
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, 86-96 Chenies Mews, University College London, London, WC1E 6HX, UK.
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9
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Zhang S, Lock MC, Tie M, McMillen IC, Botting KJ, Morrison JL. Cardiac programming in the placentally restricted sheep fetus in early gestation. J Physiol 2024; 602:3815-3832. [PMID: 38975864 DOI: 10.1113/jp286702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) occurs in 8% of human pregnancies, and the growth restricted newborn is at a greater risk of developing heart disease in later adult life. In sheep, experimental restriction of placental growth (PR) from conception results in FGR, a decrease in cardiomyocyte endowment and an upregulation of pathological hypertrophic signalling in the fetal heart in late gestation. However, there is no change in the expression of markers of cellular proliferation nor in the level of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in the heart of the PR fetus in late gestation. This suggests that FGR arises early in gestation and programs a decrease in cardiomyocyte endowment in early, rather than late, gestation. Here, control and PR fetal sheep were humanely killed at 55 days' gestation (term, 150 days). Fetal body and heart weight were lower in PR compared with control fetuses and there was evidence of sparing of fetal brain growth. While there was no change in the proportion of cardiomyocytes that were proliferating in the early gestation PR heart, there was an increase in measures of apoptosis, and markers of autophagy and pathological hypertrophy in the PR fetal heart. These changes in early gestation highlight that FGR is associated with evidence of early cell death and compensatory hypertrophic responses of cardiomyocytes in the fetal heart. The data suggest that early placental restriction results in a decrease in the pool of proliferative cardiomyocytes in early gestation, which would limit cardiomyocyte endowment in the heart of the PR fetus in late gestation. KEY POINTS: Placental restriction leading to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and chronic fetal hypoxaemia in sheep results in a decrease in cardiomyocyte endowment in late gestation. FGR did not change cardiomyocyte proliferation during early gestation but did result in increased apoptosis and markers of autophagy in the fetal heart, which may result in the decreased endowment of cardiomyocytes observed in late gestation. FGR in early gestation also results in increased hypoxia inducible factor signalling in the fetal heart, which in turn may result in the altered expression of epigenetic regulators, increased expression of insulin-like growth factor 2 and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy during late gestation and after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Zhang
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mitchell C Lock
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Michelle Tie
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - I Caroline McMillen
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kimberley J Botting
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Castleman J, Curtis S, Fox C, Hudsmith L, Nolan L, Geoghegan J, Metodiev Y, Roberts E, Morse L, Nisbet A, Foley P, Wright I, Thomas H, Morris K, Adamson D, De Bono J. Cardiac implantable electronic devices in pregnancy: A position statement. BJOG 2024. [PMID: 39086037 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17918] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this document is to provide guidance for the management of women and birthing people with a permanent pacemaker (PPM) or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Cardiac devices are becoming more common in obstetric practice and a reference document for contemporary evidence-based practice is required. Where evidence is limited, expert consensus has established recommendations. The purpose is to improve safety and reduce the risk of adverse events relating to implanted cardiac devices during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Castleman
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephanie Curtis
- University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Caroline Fox
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lucy Hudsmith
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lynn Nolan
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands Maternal Medicine Network, UK
| | - James Geoghegan
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Eleri Roberts
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Lucy Morse
- The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Ashley Nisbet
- University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Foley
- Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Swindon, UK
| | - Ian Wright
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Honey Thomas
- Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North Shields, UK
| | - Katie Morris
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dawn Adamson
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Joseph De Bono
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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11
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Putra M, Peek EEH, Devore GR, Hobbins JC. Umbilical Vein Flows and Cardiac Size, Shape, and Ventricular Contractility in Fetuses With Estimated Weight Less-Than 10th Centile. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2024. [PMID: 39076048 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In a cohort of patients with estimated fetal weights (EFWs) <10th centile, we aimed 1) to compare the prevalence of abnormalities of fetal 4-chamber view (4CV) cardiac size, shape, and ventricular contractility in fetal growth restricted (FGR) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses and 2) to compare umbilical vein flow (UVF) measurements to standard Doppler surveillance in predicting abnormalities of cardiac function. METHODS Prospective observational cohort study of fetuses with EFW <10th percentile. Measurements of size and shape used were 4CV transverse width, 4CV cardiac area, 4CV global sphericity index, and right-to-left ventricular mid-chamber width ratio. Variables of contractility used were fractional shortening change at the mid-ventricle chamber, global longitudinal strain, fractional area change, and left ventricular cardiac output. The UVF and standard Doppler surveillance including umbilical artery (UA), middle cerebral artery, and cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) were collected. Control data were from previously published studies. RESULTS A total of 95 fetuses with EFWs <10th centile were included in the study. The rates of abnormalities of cardiac size and shape and ventricular contractility were all significantly elevated compared with normally grown control fetuses but similar between FGR and SGA fetuses. In a subset of 76 patients with UVF data, evaluation UVF identified more patients with any abnormality of contractility compared with UA (37.9 vs 17.2%, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS The addition of UVF doubled the detection rate of ventricular contractility abnormalities. The addition of UVF should be considered in the surveillance of FGR and SGA fetuses to further stratify the severity of hypoxemia and to identify those at greater risk for future cardiovascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manesha Putra
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Greggory R Devore
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Fetal Diagnostic Centers, Lancaster, California, USA
| | - John C Hobbins
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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12
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Couture C, Caron M, St-Onge P, Brien ME, Sinnett D, Dal Soglio D, Girard S. Identification of divergent placental profiles in clinically distinct pregnancy complications revealed by the transcriptome. Placenta 2024; 154:184-192. [PMID: 39042974 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB), and intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) have individually been associated with inflammation but the combined comparative analysis of their placental profiles at the transcriptomic and histological levels is lacking. METHODS Bulk RNA-sequencing of human placental biopsies from uncomplicated term pregnancies (CTL) and pregnancies complicated with early-onset (EO), and late-onset (LO) PE, as well as PTB and term IUGR were used to characterize individual molecular profiles. We also applied immune-cell-specific cellular deconvolution to address local immune cell compositions and analyzed placental lesions by histology to further characterize these complications. RESULTS Transcriptome analysis revealed that clinically distinct complications differentiated themselves in unique ways compared to CTLs. Only TMEM136 was commonly modulated. Compared to CTLs, we found that PTB and IUGR were the most distinct, with LOPE being the least distinct. PTB and IUGR revealed differently enhanced inflammatory pathways, where PTB had general inflammatory responses and IUGR had immune cell activation. This inflammation was reflected in the histological profile for PTB only, whereas structural lesions were elevated in all complications. Placental lesions additionally had corresponding enhancement in inflammatory and structural biological processes. We observed that having co-complications, particularly for PTB with or without IUGR, impacted placental transcriptomes. Lastly, cellular deconvolution uncovered shared immune features among the complications. DISCUSSION Overall, we provide evidence that these pregnancy complications are not only distinct in their clinical manifestations but also in their placental profiles, which could be leveraged to understand their underlying mechanisms and could offer therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Couture
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maxime Caron
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pascal St-Onge
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Eve Brien
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Sinnett
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dorothée Dal Soglio
- Department of Pathology and Cellular Biology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Girard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Ramirez Zegarra R, Ghi T, Lees C. Does the use of angiogenic biomarkers for the management of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction improve outcomes?: Challenging the current status quo. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 300:268-277. [PMID: 39053087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.07.042] [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: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Monitoring and timing of delivery in preterm preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction is one of the biggest challenges in Obstetrics. Finding the optimal time of delivery of these fetuses usually involves a trade-off between the severity of the disease and prematurity. So far, most clinical guidelines recommend the use of a combination between clinical, laboratory and ultrasound markers to guide the time of delivery. Angiogenic biomarkers, especially placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential role in the prediction and diagnosis of placenta-related disorders including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Another potential clinical application of the angiogenic biomarkers is for the differential diagnosis of patients with chronic kidney disease, as this condition shares similar clinical features with preeclampsia. Consequently, angiogenic biomarkers have been advocated as tools for monitoring and deciding the optimal time of the delivery of fetuses affected by placental dysfunction. In this clinical opinion, we critically review the available literature on PlGF and sFlt-1 for the surveillance and time of the delivery in fetuses affected by preterm preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Moreover, we explore the use of angiogenic biomarkers for the differentiation between chronic kidney disease and superimposed preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Ramirez Zegarra
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Tullio Ghi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Christoph Lees
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Centre for Fetal Care, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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14
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Fang Q, Shi Y, Zhang C, Cai Y, Yuan C, Yang J, He G. Value of foetal umbilical vein standardised blood flow volume in predicting weight gain in the third trimester: a prospective case-cohort study. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1376774. [PMID: 39086624 PMCID: PMC11289770 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1376774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to establish a prediction model of foetal umbilical vein standardised blood flow volume (sQuv) on estimated foetal weight (EFW) in the third trimester. Methods A case-cohort study involving 200 eligible normal foetuses was conducted at the Ultrasound Department of Longquanyi District of Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital between June 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. Ultrasound measurements were taken at two separate intervals to assess EFW and the rate of EFW (rEFW) [first: between 28 w and 33 w6d of gestational age (GA); second: after 4-6 weeks]. Umbilical vein blood flow volume (Quv) and sQuv (normalised with EFW) were calculated only during the initial measurement. Using general linear regression, a prediction model for EFW based on GA and sQuv was developed, with the gestational week employed as a calibration scalar and validated using linear regression cross-validation. Results In the third trimester, EFW exhibited significant correlations with GA, abdominal circumference (AC), head circumference (HC) and Quv (all ρ > 0.6, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the rEFW showed significant correlations with Quv and sQuv (all ρ > 0.6, P < 0.001). A linear regression equation was established using a general linear regression model: rEFW = 0.32689 × sQuv. Additionally, a foetal weight prediction model (EFW = -2,554.6770 + 0.9655 × sQuv + 129.6916 × GA) was established using sQuv. The above two formulas were cross-validated by intra-group linear regression and proved to be of good efficacy. Conclusions In the third trimester, EFW displayed significant correlations with GA, AC, HC and Quv. Additionally, the rEFW exhibited significant correlations with Quv and sQuv. The sQuv during the third trimester has predictive value for foetal weight, serving as an early warning indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Fang
- Department of Ultrasound, LongQuanYi District of Chengdu Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yihao Shi
- Department of Statistics, LongQuanYi District of Chengdu Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, LongQuanYi District of Chengdu Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Cai
- Department of Ultrasound, LongQuanYi District of Chengdu Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Cuili Yuan
- Department of Ultrasound, LongQuanYi District of Chengdu Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaxiang Yang
- Department of Ultrasound, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Guannan He
- Department of Ultrasound, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
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15
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Poletti de Chaurand V, Scandella G, Zicoia M, Arienti F, Fernicola F, Lanteri L, Guglielmi D, Carli A, Vasarri MV, Iozzi L, Cavallero A, Malandrin SMI, Locatelli A, Ventura ML, Sinelli M, Ornaghi S. Useful Clinical Criteria for Identifying Neonates with Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection at Birth in the Context of an Expanded Targeted Screening Program. Viruses 2024; 16:1138. [PMID: 39066300 PMCID: PMC11281348 DOI: 10.3390/v16071138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading infectious cause of brain defects and neurological dysfunctions, including sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Targeted screening in neonates failing the hearing screen is currently recommended in Italy according to national guidelines. However, SNHL may not be present at birth; also, congenital CMV (cCMV) may manifest with subtle signs other than SNHL. Therefore, the inclusion of additional criteria for cCMV screening appears clinically valuable. Starting January 2021, we have implemented expanded targeted cCMV screening at our center, with testing in case of maternal CMV infection during pregnancy, inadequate antenatal care, maternal HIV infection or immunosuppression, birthweight and/or head circumference < 10th centile, failed hearing screen, and prematurity. During the first three years of use of this program (2021-2023), 940 (12.3%) of 7651 live-born infants were tested. The most common indication was birthweight < 10th centile (n = 633, 67.3%). Eleven neonates were diagnosed as congenitally infected, for a prevalence of 1.17% (95%CI 0.48-1.86) on tested neonates and of 0.14% (95%CI 0.06-0.23) on live-born infants. None of the cCMV-infected newborns had a failed hearing screen as a testing indication. Implementation of an expanded cCMV screening program appears feasible and of clinical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Poletti de Chaurand
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Gaia Scandella
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Marianna Zicoia
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (L.I.); (M.L.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesca Arienti
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Federica Fernicola
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Laura Lanteri
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Diletta Guglielmi
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Anna Carli
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
| | - Maria Viola Vasarri
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Lucia Iozzi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (L.I.); (M.L.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Annalisa Cavallero
- Microbiology Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (A.C.); (S.M.I.M.)
| | | | - Anna Locatelli
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Maria Luisa Ventura
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (L.I.); (M.L.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Mariateresa Sinelli
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (L.I.); (M.L.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Sara Ornaghi
- Obstetric Unit, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (V.P.d.C.); (G.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (L.L.); (D.G.); (A.C.); (M.V.V.); (A.L.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
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Sapantzoglou I, Giourga M, Pergialiotis V, Mantzioros R, Daskalaki MA, Papageorgiou D, Antsaklis P, Theodora M, Thomakos N, Daskalakis G. Low fetal fraction and adverse pregnancy outcomes- systematic review of the literature and metanalysis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07638-4. [PMID: 39008086 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07638-4] [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: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE While cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening has emerged as a screening modality for common aneuploidies, further research and several publications over the past decade suggested some correlation between the low concentrations of cfDNA and a number of pregnancy-related complications. The primary goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the potential value of low-ff levels in the prediction of subsequent PE/PIH, GDM, SGA/FGR, and PTB. The meta-analysis results aim at summarizing the currently available literature data and determining the clinical relevance of this biochemical marker and the potential necessity for additional investigation of its utility in complications other than the detection of common aneuploidies. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. It included all observational studies that reported low -ff levels after the performance of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) as part of the screening for chromosomal abnormalities and their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes, namely the subsequent development of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and the detection of small for gestational age fetuses or growth-restricted fetuses. The Medline (1966-2041), Scopus (2004-2024), Clinicaltrials.gov (2008-2024), EMBASE (1980-2024), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL (1999-2024) and Google Scholar (2004-2024) databases were used in our primary search along with the reference lists of electronically retrieved full-text papers. The date of our last search was set at February 29, 2024. RESULTS Our search identified 128 potentially relevant studies and,overall, 8 studies were included in the present systematic review that enrolled a total of 72,507 patients. Low ff of cfDNA cfDNA was positively associated with HDP (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.34, 2.06, I-square test: 56%). Low ff of cfDNA was positively associated with GDM (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03, 1.56, I-square test: 76%). Furthermore, low ff levels were positively associated with SGA/FGR (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.32, 2.03, I-square test: 0%). Low ff levels were positively correlated with the risk for PTB but the association did not manage to reach a statistical significant level (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.89, 1.67, I-square test: 66%). CONCLUSION Our study suggests that low ff is associated with increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, including PE/PIH, GDM, and SGA/FGR. However, the relationship between ff and PTB remains unclear due to conflicting evidence. It should be emphasized that further research is needed to reveal the underlying mechanisms behind the association of low ff with adverse pregnancy outcomes and explore its potential role in an overall prenatal screening, which could potentially not be limited to detecting aneuploidies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioakeim Sapantzoglou
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece.
| | - Maria Giourga
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasileios Pergialiotis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafail Mantzioros
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Anastasia Daskalaki
- School of Medicine, European University of Cyprus, Address: 6, Diogenous Str.Egkomi, 2404, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Dimitrios Papageorgiou
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Antsaklis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Mariana Theodora
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Thomakos
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Daskalakis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias 80 Aven., 2-4, Lourou Str., 11528, Athens, Greece
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Hocquette A, Pulakka A, Metsälä J, Heikkilä K, Zeitlin J, Kajantie E. Association between risk of infant death and birth-weight z scores according to gestational age: A nationwide study using the Finnish Medical Birth Register. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38993143 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between infant mortality and birth weight using estimated fetal weight (EFW) versus birth-weight charts, by gestational age (GA). METHODS This nationwide population-based study used data from the Finnish Medical Birth Register from 2006 to 2016 on non-malformed singleton live births at 24-41+6 weeks of gestation (N = 563 630). The outcome was death in the first year of life. Mortality risks by birth-weight z score, defined as a continuous variable using Maršál's EFW and Sankilampi's birth-weight charts, were assessed using generalized additive models by GA (24-27+6, 28-31+6, 32-36+6, 37-38+6, 39-41+6 weeks). We calculated z score thresholds associated with a two- and three-fold increased risk of infant death compared with newborns with a birth weight between 0 and 0.675 standard deviations. RESULTS The z score thresholds (with corresponding centiles in parentheses) associated with a two-fold increase in infant mortality were: -3.43 (<0.1) at 24-27+6 weeks, -3.46 (<0.1) at 28-31+6 weeks, -1.29 (9.9) at 32-36+6 weeks, -1.18 (11.9) at 37-38+6 weeks, and - 1.34 (9.0) at 39-41+6 weeks according to the EFW chart. These values were - 2.43 (0.8), -2.62 (0.4), -1.34 (9.0), -1.37 (8.5), and - 1.43 (7.6) according to the birth-weight chart. CONCLUSION The association between birth weight and infant mortality varies by GA whichever chart is used, suggesting that different thresholds for the screening of growth anomalies could be used across GA to identify high-risk newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Pulakka
- Population Health Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Unit of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Johanna Metsälä
- Population Health Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katriina Heikkilä
- Population Health Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Center for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Eero Kajantie
- Population Health Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Clinical Medicine Research Unit, MRC Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Kumar M, Balyan K, Debnath E, Humtsoe B, Meena B, Ravi V, Singh S. Placental biophysical model for prediction of early onset fetal growth restriction in first and second trimester of pregnancy: A prospective cohort study. Placenta 2024; 154:153-159. [PMID: 39013215 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess the placental biometry, placental biomarkers and uterine artery Doppler in each trimester of pregnancy for prediction of early-onset fetal growth restriction (EO FGR). METHODS In this prospective cohort study placental biometry; biomarkers PAPP-A, sFLT-1, and PlGF along with the uterine artery blood flow evaluation was done serially at 11-14, 20-24 and 28-32 weeks of gestation. The above parameters were compared between women with early onset FGR and controls. RESULTS Out of 1008 fully followed cases, the small for gestational age fetuses were 227/1008 (22.5 %), and EO FGR were 84/1008(8.3 %).The placental length, volume, and PlGF levels were significantly lower, whereas the uterine artery PI(Ut PI) was significantly higher at all time points among cases. The sFLT-1 level showed a significant increase among cases, whereas it decreased among controls from the first to the second trimester. The detection rate using PV/UtA PI was 60 % in the first trimester and 66.7 % in the second trimester at 30 % FPR. CONCLUSION The PV/Ut PI in first and the second trimester was a good marker for the prediction of pregnancies at increased risk of developing EO FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LHMC, New Delhi, India.
| | - Kirti Balyan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LHMC, New Delhi, India
| | - Ekta Debnath
- Department of Biochemistry, MAMC, New Delhi, India
| | - Ben Humtsoe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LHMC, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhawana Meena
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LHMC, New Delhi, India
| | - V Ravi
- Department of Statistics, Lady Sri Ram College, New Delhi, India
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Köber F, Heimann Y, Lehmann T, Schleußner E, Proquitté H, Groten T. Gestational age at birth, birth weight, and gestational age when intrauterine brain sparing occurs determines the neonatal outcome in growth-restricted infants born before 32 weeks of gestation: a retrospective cohort analysis. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1377982. [PMID: 39026938 PMCID: PMC11254702 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1377982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth and fetal growth restriction are the main determinants of perinatal mortality. In the absence of therapeutic interventions, management is restricted to the observation of fetal growth and fetoplacental perfusion to determine the timing of delivery. Fetal circulatory redistribution, known as "brain sparing," represents a sign of fetal hypoxia and has been implemented in algorithms for when to deliver. In the absence of any other option, the nitric oxide donor pentaerythrityl tetranitrate (PETN), which has been shown to improve fetoplacental flow and reduce preterm birth in high-risk patients, is offered to patients as a personal therapy attempt. The aim of this study was to evaluate determinants related to pregnancy, including PETN intake during pregnancy, on immediate neonatal outcomes in a cohort of growth-restricted infants born before 32 completed weeks of gestation. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of 98 infants born with a birth weight below the 10th percentile before 32 completed weeks of gestation at our tertiary care center between 2010 and 2019. PETN was offered to all mothers with a history of severe adverse pregnancy outcomes who were at high risk of developing fetal growth restriction as an individual therapy attempt. Results The mean gestational age at birth was 188.5 days, and the mean birth weight was 549 g, corresponding to a median percentile of three. In 73 (79.3%) cases, brain sparing occurred during pregnancy. A total of 22 (22.4%) neonates were stillborn, 20 died postnatally, and 37.3% developed a severe complication. Multivariable analysis revealed birth weight percentile, gestational age at birth, and gestational age when brain sparing first occurred to be robust predictors of mortality or severe neonatal morbidity. In 39 neonates of mothers taking PETN, this impact of brain sparing was not observed. Conclusion Our study is the first to demonstrate a significant association between the early occurrence of brain-sparing and severe neonatal outcomes in a cohort of very early preterm, growth-restricted newborns. The data suggest that PETN intake may ameliorate the effect of brain sparing in the affected neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Köber
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Yvonne Heimann
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas Lehmann
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Information Sciences and Documentation, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Hans Proquitté
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Tanja Groten
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
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Umapathy A, Clark A, Sehgal A, Karanam V, Rajaraman G, Kalionis B, Jones H, James J, Murthi P. Molecular regulators of defective placental and cardiovascular development in fetal growth restriction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:761-775. [PMID: 38904187 PMCID: PMC11193155 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Placental insufficiency is one of the major causes of fetal growth restriction (FGR), a significant pregnancy disorder in which the fetus fails to achieve its full growth potential in utero. As well as the acute consequences of being born too small, affected offspring are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases in later life. The placenta and heart develop concurrently, therefore placental maldevelopment and function in FGR may have profound effect on the growth and differentiation of many organ systems, including the heart. Hence, understanding the key molecular players that are synergistically linked in the development of the placenta and heart is critical. This review highlights the key growth factors, angiogenic molecules and transcription factors that are common causes of defective placental and cardiovascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anandita Umapathy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, Bioengineering Institute, New Zealand
| | - Arvind Sehgal
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia and Monash Newborn, Monash Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Vijaya Karanam
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gayathri Rajaraman
- First year college, Victoria University, St Albans, Victoria 3021, Australia
| | - Bill Kalionis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen N. Jones
- Department of Physiology and Aging, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
- Center for Research in Perinatal Outcomes, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - Jo James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, Bioengineering Institute, New Zealand
| | - Padma Murthi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Rodriguez-Sibaja MJ, Lopez-Diaz AJ, Valdespino-Vazquez MY, Acevedo-Gallegos S, Amaya-Guel Y, Camarena-Cabrera DM, Lumbreras-Marquez MI. Placental pathology lesions: International Society for Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology vs Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine fetal growth restriction definitions. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2024; 6:101422. [PMID: 38969177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2024.101422] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on the definition of fetal growth restriction (FGR) has focused on predicting adverse perinatal outcomes. A significant limitation of this approach is that the individual outcomes of interest could be related to the condition and the treatment. Evaluation of outcomes that reflect the pathophysiology of FGR may overcome this limitation. OBJECTIVE To compare the diagnostic performance of the FGR definitions established by the International Society for Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) to predict placental histopathological findings associated with placental insufficiency and a composite adverse neonatal outcome (ANeO). STUDY DESIGN In this retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies, the ISUOG and the SMFM guidelines were used to identify pregnancies with FGR and a corresponding control group. The primary outcome was the prediction of placental histopathological findings associated with placental insufficiency, defined as lesions associated with maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM). A composite ANeO (ie, umbilical artery pH≤7.1, Apgar score at 5 minutes ≤4, neonatal intensive care unit admission, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress syndrome requiring mechanical ventilation, intrapartum fetal distress requiring expedited delivery, and perinatal death) was investigated as a secondary outcome. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and the areas under the receiver-operating-characteristics curves were determined for each FGR definition. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between each definition and the studied outcomes. A subgroup analysis of the diagnostic performance of both definitions stratifying the population in early and late FGR was also performed. RESULTS Both societies' definitions showed a similar diagnostic performance as well as a significant association with the primary (ISUOG adjusted odds ratio 3.01 [95% confidence interval 2.42, 3.75]; SMFM adjusted odds ratio 2.85 [95% confidence interval 2.31, 3.51]) and secondary outcomes (ISUOG adjusted odds ratio 1.95 [95% confidence interval 1.56, 2.43]; SMFM adjusted odds ratio 2.12 [95% confidence interval 1.70, 2.65]). Furthermore, both FGR definitions had a limited discriminatory capacity for placental histopathological findings of MVM and the composite ANeO (area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve ISUOG 0.63 [95% confidence interval 0.61, 0.65], 0.59 [95% confidence interval 0.56, 0.61]; area under the receiver-operating-characteristics SMFM 0.63 [95% confidence interval 0.61, 0.66], 0.60 [95% confidence interval 0.57, 0.62]). CONCLUSION The ISUOG and the SMFM FGR definitions have limited discriminatory capacity for placental histopathological findings associated with placental insufficiency and a composite ANeO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J Rodriguez-Sibaja
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez)
| | - Ana J Lopez-Diaz
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez)
| | | | - Sandra Acevedo-Gallegos
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez)
| | - Yubia Amaya-Guel
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez)
| | - Dulce M Camarena-Cabrera
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez)
| | - Mario I Lumbreras-Marquez
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia, Mexico City, Mexico (Rodriguez-Sibaja, Lopez-Diaz, Acevedo-Gallegos, Amaya-Guel, Camarena-Cabrera, and Lumbreras-Marquez); Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Universidad Panamericana School of Medicine, Mexico City, Mexico (Lumbreras-Marquez).
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Hong J, Crawford K, Cavanagh E, da Silva Costa F, Kumar S. Prediction of preterm birth in growth-restricted and appropriate-for-gestational-age infants using maternal PlGF and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio-A prospective study. BJOG 2024; 131:1089-1101. [PMID: 38196326 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the utility of placental growth factor (PlGF) levels and the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1/placental growth factor (sFlt-1/PlGF) ratio to predict preterm birth (PTB) for infants with fetal growth restriction (FGR) and those appropriate for gestational age (AGA). DESIGN Prospective, observational cohort study. SETTING Tertiary maternity hospital in Australia. POPULATION There were 320 singleton pregnancies: 141 (44.1%) AGA, 83 (25.9%) early FGR (<32+0 weeks) and 109 (30.0%) late FGR (≥32+0 weeks). METHODS Maternal serum PlGF and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were measured at 4-weekly intervals from recruitment to delivery. Low maternal PlGF levels and elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were defined as <100 ng/L and >5.78 if <28 weeks and >38 if ≥28 weeks respectively. Cox proportional hazards models were used. The analysis period was defined as the time from the first measurement of PlGF and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio to the time of birth or censoring. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary study outcome was overall PTB. The relative risks (RR) of birth within 1, 2 and 3 weeks and for medically indicated and spontaneous PTB were also ascertained. RESULTS The early FGR cohort had lower median PlGF levels (54 versus 229 ng/L, p < 0.001) and higher median sFlt-1 levels (2774 ng/L versus 2096 ng/L, p < 0.001) and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio higher (35 versus 10, p < 0.001). Both PlGF <100 ng/L and elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were strongly predictive for PTB as well as PTB within 1, 2 and 3 weeks of diagnosis. For both FGR and AGA groups, PlGF <100 ng/L or raised sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were strongly associated with increased risk for medically indicated PTB. The highest RR was seen in the FGR cohort when PlGF was <100 ng/L (RR 35.20, 95% CI 11.48-175.46). CONCLUSIONS Low maternal PlGF levels and elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratio are potentially useful to predict PTB in both FGR and AGA pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesrine Hong
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kylie Crawford
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Erika Cavanagh
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fabricio da Silva Costa
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Santos LG, de Sá RAM, Baião AER, Portari EA, de Avila Frayha A, Gomes Junior SC, Araujo Júnior E. Fetal hemodynamics and placental histopathology in Down syndrome. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2024; 52:680-686. [PMID: 38587238 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between Doppler patterns in fetuses with Down syndrome (DS) and their placental histopathologic findings. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed by collecting data from medical records of singleton pregnancies between January 2014 and January 2022, whose fetuses had a confirmed diagnosis of DS either prenatally or postnatally. Placental histopathology, maternal characteristics, and prenatal ultrasound (biometric parameters and umbilical artery [UA] Doppler) were evaluated. RESULTS Of 69 eligible pregnant women, 61 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the sample, 15 fetuses had an estimated fetal weight < 10th percentile for gestational age (GA) and were considered small for gestational age (SGA). Thirty-eight fetuses had increased resistance on the UA Doppler. Histologic changes were detected in 100% of the placentas, the most common being delayed villous maturation, alterations associated with poor fetal vascular perfusion, and villous dysmorphism. More than 50% of the placentas showed alterations related to placental insufficiency. We did not observe a statistically significant association between UA Doppler examination and placental alterations. All placentas analyzed in the SGA subgroup showed findings compatible with placental insufficiency. CONCLUSION We found no statistically significant association between placental histopathologic findings and UA Doppler abnormalities in fetuses with DS. The placental alterations identified were delayed villous maturation, alterations associated with poor fetal vascular perfusion, and villous dysmorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Guimarães Santos
- Fetal Medicine Service, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renato Augusto Moreira de Sá
- Fetal Medicine Service, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niteroi, Brazil
| | - Ana Elisa Rodrigues Baião
- Fetal Medicine Service, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Elyzabeth Avvad Portari
- Pathology Service, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexia de Avila Frayha
- Fetal Medicine Service, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Saint Clair Gomes Junior
- Biostatistics Sector, National Institute of Women, Children and Adolescents Health Fernandes Figueira/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Edward Araujo Júnior
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Discipline of Woman Health, Municipal University of São Caetano do Sul (USCS), São Caetano do Sul, Brazil
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Avagliano L, Castiglioni S, Lettieri A, Parodi C, Di Fede E, Taci E, Grazioli P, Colombo EA, Gervasini C, Massa V. Intrauterine growth in chromatinopathies: A long road for better understanding and for improving clinical management. Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2383. [PMID: 38984779 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromatinopathies are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders caused by pathogenic variants in genes coding for chromatin state balance proteins. Remarkably, many of these syndromes present unbalanced postnatal growth, both under- and over-, although little has been described in the literature. Fetal growth measurements are common practice in pregnancy management and values within normal ranges indicate proper intrauterine growth progression; on the contrary, abnormalities in intrauterine fetal growth open the discussion of possible pathogenesis affecting growth even in the postnatal period. METHODS Among the numerous chromatinopathies, we have selected six of the most documented in the literature offering evidence about two fetal overgrowth (Sotos and Weaver syndrome) and four fetal undergrowth syndromes (Bohring Opitz, Cornelia de Lange, Floating-Harbor, and Meier Gorlin syndrome), describing their molecular characteristics, maternal biochemical results and early pregnancy findings, prenatal ultrasound findings, and postnatal characteristics. RESULTS/CONCLUSION To date, the scarce data in the literature on prenatal findings are few and inconclusive, even though these parameters may contribute to a more rapid and accurate diagnosis, calling for a better and more detailed description of pregnancy findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Castiglioni
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Lettieri
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Parodi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Di Fede
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Esi Taci
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Grazioli
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Adele Colombo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Gervasini
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Peng C, Hu L, Bu X, Li H, Jiang X, Zhou S, Deng L, He J, LinPeng S. The genetics and clinical outcomes in 151 cases of fetal growth restriction: A Chinese single-center study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 298:128-134. [PMID: 38756052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities and pregnancy outcomes in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction. Study design A total of 151 fetal samples with intrauterine growth restriction were divided into the isolated fetal growth restriction (FGR) group, FGR group with structural malformation, and FGR group with non-structural malformation, according to ultrasound abnormalities. The enrolled patients were divided into an early onset FGR group (<32 weeks) and a late-onset FGR group (≥32 weeks). Chromosomal karyotype and microarray analyses were performed and pregnancy outcomes were monitored. Results The karyotypes of 122 patients were analyzed. Four patients exhibited abnormal chromosome numbers or structures. Variations in copy number were detected in 151 cases; 19 cases were found to have chromosomal abnormalities, with a positivity rate of 12.6 %. There was one trisomy in 18 cases, one trisomy in 21 cases, eight pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs), and nine CNVs of unknown clinical significance. The detection rate of FGR combined with structural malformation was significantly higher than that of isolated FGR group. The detection rate of FGR with structural malformations was significantly higher than that with non-structural malformations. The positive detection rate in the FGR group was similar to that in the FGR group with non-structural malformations, with no statistical significance. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 17 patients with early onset FGR, with a positivity rate of 13.8 %. Two cases of chromosomal abnormalities were detected in the late-onset FGR group, with a positive rate of 7.1 %, with no statistical significance. A total of 151 fetuses with FGR were followed up for pregnancy outcomes, resulting in 36 cases of pregnancy termination and 13 cases of loss to follow-up. Among the 102 delivered fetuses, six exhibited delayed growth and development, one presented with hypospadias, and another failed the hearing screening. The remaining 94 fetuses demonstrated normal growth and development. Conclusions This study confirms the value of CNV detection in fetuses and dynamic ultrasound monitoring for fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Peng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - LanPing Hu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - XiuFen Bu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - HongYu Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - XuanYu Jiang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - ShiHao Zhou
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - Li Deng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China
| | - Jun He
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China.
| | - SiYuan LinPeng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Hereditary Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410007, China.
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Marijnen MC, Kamphof HD, Damhuis SE, Smies M, Leemhuis AG, Wolf H, Gordijn SJ, Ganzevoort W. Doppler ultrasound of umbilical and middle cerebral artery in third trimester small-for-gestational age fetuses to decide on timing of delivery for suspected fetal growth restriction: A cohort with nested RCT (DRIGITAT). BJOG 2024; 131:1042-1053. [PMID: 38498267 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the association of the umbilicocerebral ratio (UCR) with adverse perinatal outcome in late preterm small-for-gestational age (SGA) fetuses and to investigate the effect on perinatal outcomes of immediate delivery. DESIGN Multicentre cohort study with nested randomised controlled trial (RCT). SETTING Nineteen secondary and tertiary care centres. POPULATION Singleton SGA pregnancies (estimated fetal weight [EFW] or fetal abdominal circumference [FAC] <10th centile) from 32 to 36+6 weeks. METHODS Women were classified: (1) RCT-eligible: abnormal UCR twice consecutive and EFW below the 3rd centile at/or below 35 weeks or below the 10th centile at 36 weeks; (2) abnormal UCR once or intermittent; (3) never abnormal UCR. Consenting RCT-eligible patients were randomised for immediate delivery from 34 weeks or expectant management until 37 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A composite adverse perinatal outcome (CAPO), defined as perinatal death, birth asphyxia or major neonatal morbidity. RESULTS The cohort consisted of 690 women. The study was halted prematurely for low RCT-inclusion rates (n = 40). In the RCT-eligible group, gestational age at delivery, birthweight and birthweight multiple of the median (MoM) (0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59-0.72) were significantly lower and the CAPO (n = 50, 44%, p < 0.05) was more frequent. Among patients randomised for immediate delivery there was a near-significant lower birthweight (p = 0.05) and higher CAPO (p = 0.07). EFW MoM, pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension and Doppler classification were independently associated with the CAPO (area under the curve 0.71, 95% CI 0.67-0.76). CONCLUSIONS Perinatal risk was effectively identified by low EFW MoM and UCR. Early delivery of SGA fetuses with an abnormal UCR at 34-36 weeks should only be performed in the context of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauritia C Marijnen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hester D Kamphof
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Stefanie E Damhuis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maddy Smies
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aleid G Leemhuis
- Department of Neonatology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Wolf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne J Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wessel Ganzevoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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van Kammen CM, Taal SEL, Wever KE, Granger JP, Lely AT, Terstappen F. Reduced uterine perfusion pressure as a model for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction in murine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 327:H89-H107. [PMID: 38758122 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00056.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model is frequently used to study preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. An improved understanding of influential factors might improve reproducibility and reduce animal use considering the variability in RUPP phenotype. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching Medline and Embase (until 28 March, 2023) for RUPP studies in murine. Primary outcomes included maternal blood pressure (BP) or proteinuria, fetal weight or crown-rump length, fetal reabsorptions, or antiangiogenic factors. We aimed to identify influential factors by meta-regression analysis. We included 155 studies. Our meta-analysis showed that the RUPP procedure results in significantly higher BP (MD = 24.1 mmHg; [22.6; 25.7]; n = 148), proteinuria (SMD = 2.3; [0.9; 3.8]; n = 28), fetal reabsorptions (MD = 50.4%; [45.5; 55.2]; n = 42), circulating soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) (SMD = 2.6; [1.7; 3.4]; n = 34), and lower fetal weight (MD = -0.4 g; [-0.47; -0.34]; n = 113. The heterogeneity (variability between studies) in primary outcomes appeared ≥90%. Our meta-regression identified influential factors in the method and time point of BP measurement, randomization in fetal weight, and type of control group in sFlt-1. The RUPP is a robust model considering the evident differences in maternal and fetal outcomes. The high heterogeneity reflects the observed variability in phenotype. Because of underreporting, we observed reporting bias and a high risk of bias. We recommend standardizing study design by optimal time point and method chosen for readout measures to limit the variability. This contributes to improved reproducibility and thereby eventually improves the translational value of the RUPP model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren M van Kammen
- Division of Nanomedicine, Department CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Seija E L Taal
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kimberley E Wever
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain, and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joey P Granger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States
| | - A Titia Lely
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fieke Terstappen
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Dall'Asta A, Penas Da Costa MA, Sorrentino S, Lees C, Ghi T. Counseling in fetal medicine: pre- and periviable fetal growth restriction. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:10-14. [PMID: 37902741 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Dall'Asta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - M A Penas Da Costa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - S Sorrentino
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Lees
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Centre for Fetal Care, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - T Ghi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Firatligil FB, Sucu ST, Tuncdemir S, Saglam E, Dereli ML, Ozkan S, Reis YA, Yucel KY, Celen S, Caglar AT. Evaluation of systemic immune-inflammation index for predicting late-onset fetal growth restriction. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 310:433-439. [PMID: 38536449 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07453-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To determine a cut-off value for systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) (neutrophil × platelet/lymphocyte) in the prediction of fetal growth restriction (FGR). MATERIALS AND METHODS This case-control study was conducted retrospectively at the Obstetrics-Gynecology and Perinatology Clinics of Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Women's Health Education and Training Hospital. Singleton pregnant women with late-onset FGR who were followed up in outpatient clinics or hospitalized and whose pregnancy resulted at our hospital were included in the study group (group I). Healthy early and full-term singleton pregnant women with spontaneous labor who were followed up in the same hospital and whose pregnancy resulted at the same hospital were included in the control group (group II). Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to assess the performance of SII value in predicting FGR. RESULTS We recruited 79 cases (pregnant with late-onset fetal growth restriction) and 79 controls (healthy pregnant), matched for age, body mass index, and parity. ΔSII was statistically significantly higher in the pregnant with late-onset FGR compared with healthy pregnant (123 vs - 65; p = 0.039). The values in ROC curves with the best balance of sensitivity/specificity were > 152 109/L (49% sensitivity, 70% specificity) and > 586 109/L (27% sensitivity, 90% specificity) for late-onset FGR. DISCUSSION Higher ΔSII levels in maternal blood indicate an inflammatory process causing FGR. The cut-off value for ΔSII (> 586 109/L) at 90% specificity can be used as a screening test. In the presence of ΔSII levels > 586 109/L (27% sensitivity and 90% specificity), the physicians should be more cautious about risk for FGR. Therefore, pregnant women at risk for FGR should be checked more frequently and monitored closely. However, further studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahri Burcin Firatligil
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Serap Topkara Sucu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sitare Tuncdemir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erkan Saglam
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Levent Dereli
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sadullah Ozkan
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yildiz Akdas Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Women's Health Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kadriye Yakut Yucel
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sevki Celen
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ali Turhan Caglar
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Souka AP, Antsaklis P, Tassias K, Chatziioannou MA, Papamihail M, Daskalakis G. The role of the PLGF in the prediction of the outcome in pregnancies with a small for gestational age fetus. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 310:237-243. [PMID: 37837546 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07214-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the value of measuring maternal serum PLGF in the prediction of the outcome of small for gestational age fetuses (SGA). METHODS Singleton pregnancies referred with suspicion of SGA in the third trimester were included if they had: no indication for nor signs of imminent delivery, fetal abdominal circumference (AC) at or below the 10th centile and/or estimated fetal weight (EFW) at or below the 10th centile and/or umbilical artery pulsatility index (Umb-PI) at or above the 90th centile for gestation. Women with pre-eclampsia at presentation were excluded. Maternal blood was drawn at the first (index) visit and analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS Fifty-one fetuses were examined. Multiple regression analysis showed that family history of microsomia, index EFW and PLGF were significant predictors of the birthweight centile; index femur length centile and PLGF were significant predictors of pre-eclampsia; PLGF and index systolic blood pressure were significant predictors of iatrogenic preterm delivery < 37 weeks, whereas PLGF and index EFW were significant predictors of birthweight ≤ 5th centile and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. For all outcomes, the addition of maternal-fetal parameters did not improve the prediction compared to PLGF alone. Using a cutoff of 0.3 MoM for PLGF would identify 94.1% of the pregnancies with iatrogenic preterm delivery and/or intra-uterine death and all of the cases that developed pre-eclampsia, for a screen positive rate of 54.9%. Women with PLGF ≤ 0.3 MoM had a poor fetal/maternal outcome (iatrogenic preterm delivery, pre-eclampsia, intra-uterine death) in 61.5% of cases. CONCLUSION In pregnancies complicated by SGA, PLGF identifies a very high-risk group that may benefit from intense surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athena P Souka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece.
| | - Panagiotis Antsaklis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tassias
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Anna Chatziioannou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Papamihail
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - George Daskalakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens-Faculty of Medicine, 41, D. Soutsou Str, 11521, Athens, Greece
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Rosta K, Heinzl F, Kuczwara V, Schindler S, Falcone V, Catic A, Riedmann M, Leitner H, Simader E, Ritschl V, Stamm T, Szlatinay A, Mandl P, Mazzucato-Puchner A. Pregnancy outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus compared to a high-risk tertiary cohort and to standard population from the Austrian birth registry. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024. [PMID: 38943224 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a higher risk for fetal and maternal complications. We aimed to investigate maternal and fetal complications in pregnant women with SLE compared to a high-risk pregnancy cohort (HR) from a tertiary university center and a standard-risk general population (SR) from the Austrian Birth Registry. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this retrospective data analysis, we compared the incidence of fetal/neonatal and maternal complications of pregnancies and deliveries of women with SLE to age, body mass index and delivery date-matched high-risk pregnancies from the same department, a progressive tertiary obstetric center and to a group of women, who represent pregnancies with standard obstetric risk from the Austrian Birth Registry. RESULTS One hundred women with SLE were compared to 300 women with high-risk pregnancies and 207 039 women with standard-risk pregnancies. The incidence of composite maternal complications (preeclampsia, Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets [HELLP] syndrome, pregnancy-related hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, maternal death, thromboembolic events) was significantly higher in the SLE as compared to the SR group (28% vs. 6.28% SLE vs. SR, p = 0.001). There was no difference between the SLE and the HR groups (28% vs. 29.6% SLE vs. HR group, p = 0.80). The incidence of composite fetal complications (preterm birth before 37 weeks of gestation, stillbirths, birth weight less than 2500 g, fetal growth restriction, large for gestational age, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, 5-min Apgar <7) was also higher in the SLE than in the SR group (55% vs. 25.54% SLE vs. SR p < 0.001) while the higher incidence of adverse fetal outcome was detected in the HR than in the SLE group (55% vs. 75% SLE vs. HR group, p = 0.0005). CONCLUSIONS Although composite fetal risk is higher in the SLE group than in the general population, it is still significantly lower as compared to high-risk pregnant women at a tertiary obstetric center. Prepregnancy counseling of women with SLE should put fetal and maternal risk in perspective, not only in relation to healthy, low risk cohorts, but also compared to mixed HR populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Rosta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Heinzl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valerie Kuczwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefanie Schindler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronica Falcone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anja Catic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marina Riedmann
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hermann Leitner
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Simader
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentin Ritschl
- Center for Medical Data Science, Institute for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tanja Stamm
- Center for Medical Data Science, Institute for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexandra Szlatinay
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Mandl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Antonia Mazzucato-Puchner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Blok EL, Burger RJ, Bergeijk JEV, Bourgonje AR, Goor HV, Ganzevoort W, Gordijn SJ. Oxidative stress biomarkers for fetal growth restriction in umbilical cord blood: A scoping review. Placenta 2024; 154:88-109. [PMID: 38943922 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction and underlying placental insufficiency are associated with increased oxidative stress. Current diagnostics fail to identify all growth restricted fetuses and newborns, due to focus on small size. This scoping review aims to summarize the available evidence on usefulness of cord blood oxidative stress biomarkers for identification of growth restricted newborns in need of monitoring and support because of associated health risks. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from inception to May 2024. Studies were included if oxidative stress biomarkers were measured in cord blood collected immediately after delivery in newborns suspected to be growth restricted. Biomarkers were categorized based on the origin and/or biological function and their interrelationships. Oxidative stress was determined for each individual biomarker and category. Literature search identified 78 studies on 39 different biomarkers, with a total of 2707 newborns with suspected growth restriction, and 4568 controls. Total oxidant/antioxidant status, catalase, glutathione, ischemia-modified albumin, and nucleated red blood cells were most consistently associated with suspected growth restriction. Reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species, factors in their production, antioxidant enzymes, non-enzymatic antioxidants, and products of oxidative stress were not consistently associated. This review collates the evidence of associations between cord blood oxidative stress biomarkers and growth restriction. Total oxidant/antioxidant status, catalase, glutathione, ischemia-modified albumin, and nucleated red blood cells could potentially be candidates for developing a cord blood diagnostic tool for future clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelien L Blok
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Renée J Burger
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jenny E Van Bergeijk
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Arno R Bourgonje
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Harry Van Goor
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Wessel Ganzevoort
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sanne J Gordijn
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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Musco H, Beecher K, Chand KK, Boyd RN, Colditz PB, Wixey JA. The search for blood biomarkers that indicate risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in fetal growth restriction. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1396102. [PMID: 38966491 PMCID: PMC11222567 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1396102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) impacts 5%-10% of pregnancies and is associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity. Although adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes are observed in up to 50% of FGR infants, a diagnosis of FGR does not indicate the level of risk for an individual infant and these infants are not routinely followed up to assess neurodevelopmental outcomes. Identifying FGR infants at increased risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes would greatly assist in providing appropriate support and interventions earlier, resulting in improved outcomes. However, current methods to detect brain injury around the time of birth lack the sensitivity required to detect the more subtle alterations associated with FGR. Blood biomarkers have this potential. This systematic review assessed the current literature on blood biomarkers for identifying FGR infants at increased risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes at >12 months after birth. Four databases were searched from inception to 22 February 2024. Articles were assessed for meeting the inclusion criteria by two reviewers. The quality of the included article was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2. A summary of findings is presented as insufficient articles were identified for meta-analysis. Excluding duplicates, 1,368 records were screened with only 9 articles considered for full text review. Only one article met all the inclusion criteria. Quality assessment indicated low risk of bias. Both blood biomarkers investigated in this study, neuron specific enolase and S100B, demonstrated inverse relationships with neurodevelopmental assessments at 2 years. Four studies did not meet all the inclusion criteria yet identified promising findings for metabolites and cytokines which are discussed here. These findings support the need for further research and highlight the potential for blood biomarkers to predict adverse outcomes. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=369242, Identifier CRD42022369242.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Musco
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kate Beecher
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kirat K. Chand
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Roslyn N. Boyd
- Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul B. Colditz
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Perinatal Research Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Julie A. Wixey
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Kosińska-Kaczyńska K, Chaberek K, Szymecka-Samaha N, Brawura-Biskupski-Samaha R, Czapska A, Żebrowska K, Dera N, Madzelewski J, Góra J, Borawski K, Włoch W, Scholz A. Is the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio efficient in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes in small-for-gestational-age newborns? A prospective observational multicenter cohort study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1414381. [PMID: 38915764 PMCID: PMC11194309 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1414381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fetuses with growth abnormalities are at an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate if placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), or the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were efficient predictive factors of adverse neonatal outcomes in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) newborns. Methods A prospective observational multicenter cohort study was performed between 2020 and 2023. At the time of the SGA fetus diagnosis, serum angiogenic biomarker measurements were performed. The primary outcome was an adverse neonatal outcome, diagnosed in the case of any of the following: <34 weeks of gestation: mechanical ventilation, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage grade III or IV, and neonatal death before discharge; ≥34 weeks of gestation: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, continuous positive airway pressure, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage grade III or IV, and neonatal death before discharge. Results In total, 192 women who delivered SGA newborns were included in the study. The serum concentrations of PlGF were lower, leading to a higher sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in the adverse outcome group. No significant differences in sFlt-1 levels were observed between the groups. Both PlGF and sFlt-1 had a moderate correlation with adverse neonatal outcomes (PlGF: R - 0.5, p < 0.001; sFlt-1: 0.5, p < 0.001). The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio showed a correlation of 0.6 (p < 0.001) with adverse outcomes. The uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were identified as the only independent risk factors for adverse outcomes. An sFlt-1/PlGF ratio of 19.1 exhibited high sensitivity (85.1%) but low specificity (35.9%) in predicting adverse outcomes and had the strongest correlation with them. This ratio allowed the risk of adverse outcomes to be assessed as low with approximately 80% certainty. Discussion The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio seems to be an efficient predictive tool in adverse outcome risk assessment. More studies on large cohorts of SGA-complicated pregnancies with and without preeclampsia are needed to develop an optimal and detailed formula for the risk assessment of adverse outcomes in SGA newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kosińska-Kaczyńska
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Chaberek
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Szymecka-Samaha
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Agnieszka Czapska
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kinga Żebrowska
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Norbert Dera
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jan Madzelewski
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Góra
- Students’ Association, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kacper Borawski
- Students’ Association, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Weronika Włoch
- Students’ Association, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Scholz
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Kuchnowska D, Stachura A, Kosinski P, Gawlak M, Wegrzyn P. Accuracy of Estimated Fetal Weight Assessment in Fetuses with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia-Is the Hadlock Formula a Reliable Tool? J Clin Med 2024; 13:3392. [PMID: 38929920 PMCID: PMC11204691 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13123392] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is defined as organ protrusion from the abdominal to the thoracic cavity. The Hadlock formula is the most commonly used tool for calculating estimated fetal weight (EFW). The anatomical nature of CDH usually leads to underestimation of the abdominal circumference, resulting in underestimation of fetal weight. Accurate weight estimation is essential before birth for counselling, preparation before surgery and ECMO. The research is made to compare the accuracy of Hadlock's formula and Faschingbauer's formula for fetal weight estimation in CDH fetuses population. Methods: In our study, we investigated differences between EFW and actual birthweight in 42 fetuses with CDH as compared to 80 healthy matched controls. EFW was calculated using the Hadlock formula and a recently introduced formula described by Faschingbauer et al., which was tailored for fetuses with CDH. Additionally, both of the formulas were adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery for both of the groups. Results: The majority of hernias were left-sided (92.8% vs. 7.2%). EFW adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery had the highest correlation with the actual birthweight in both, study group and controls. We compared the results for both tools and found the Hadlock formula to predict birthweight in CDH children with a 7.8 ± 5.5% error as compared to 7.9 ± 6.5% error for the Faschingbauer's formula. Conclusions: The Hadlock formula adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery is a more precise method of calculating EFW in fetuses with CDH. Routine biometry scan using Hadlock's formula remains reliable for predicting birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Kuchnowska
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.G.); (P.W.)
| | - Albert Stachura
- Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Methodology, Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Przemyslaw Kosinski
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.G.); (P.W.)
| | - Maciej Gawlak
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.G.); (P.W.)
| | - Piotr Wegrzyn
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.G.); (P.W.)
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Blumrich L, Masiero Silva L, Dias Barreto V, Rohde LA, Polanczyk GV, Miguel EC, Grisi SJFE, Fleitlich-Bilyk B, Ferraro AA. Causal Pathways Between the Acute Experience of Violence During Pregnancy and Fetal Intrauterine Growth Restriction: A Cohort Study. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:765-773. [PMID: 38551182 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Violence during pregnancy (VDP) is a prevalent global issue with dire consequences for the mother and the developing fetus. These consequences include prematurity, low birthweight, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), but its pathways remain elusive. This study investigated the causal pathways between VDP and IUGR using mediation analysis. Methods: A prospective population-based birth cohort was followed from the beginning of the third gestational trimester to the second year of life. IUGR was defined by the Kramer index, and information on VDP was collected using the WHO-Violence Against Women (WHO VAW) questionnaire. Cases were considered positive only when no other life episodes were reported. Ten different mediators were analyzed as possible pathways based on previous research. Path analysis was conducted to evaluate these relationships. Results: The path analysis model included 755 dyads and presented an adequate fit. Violence during pregnancy showed a direct effect (β = -0.195, p = 0.041) and a total effect (β = -0.276, p = 0.003) on IUGR. Violence was associated with gestational depression or anxiety, tobacco and alcohol consumption, changes in blood pressure, and the need for emergency care, but these did not constitute mediators of its effect on IUGR. The sum of the indirect effects, however, showed a significant association with IUGR (β = -0.081, p = 0.011). Conclusion: The acute experience of violence during pregnancy was associated with IUGR, primarily via a direct pathway. An indirect effect was also present but not mediated through the variables analyzed in this study. The robust strength of these associations underscores the negative health consequences of violence against women for the succeeding generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Blumrich
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luis Augusto Rohde
- ADHD Outpatient Program & Developmental Psychiatry Program, Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul; Medical Council UniEduK; National Institute of Developmental Psychiatry & National Center for Innovation and Research in Mental Health, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Bacy Fleitlich-Bilyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Fenton TR, Merlino Barr S, Elmrayed S, Alshaikh B. Expected and Desirable Preterm and Small Infant Growth Patterns. Adv Nutr 2024; 15:100220. [PMID: 38670164 PMCID: PMC11251411 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adequate nutrition is necessary for achieving optimal growth and neurodevelopment. Growth is a natural and expected process that happens concomitantly with rapid advancements in neurodevelopment. Serial weight, length, and head circumference growth measures are essential for monitoring development, although identifying pathological deviations from normal growth can pose challenges. Appropriate growth assessments require considerations that a range of sizes for length, head circumference, and weight are expected and appropriate. Because of genetic differences and morbidities, there is a considerable overlap between the growth of healthy infants and those with growth alterations. Parents tend to be over-concerned about children who plot low on growth charts and often need reassurance. Thus, the use of terms such as "poor" growth or growth "failure" are discouraged when growth is approximately parallel to growth chart curves even if their size is smaller than specific percentiles. No specific percentile should be set as a growth goal; individual variability should be expected. An infant's size at birth is important information that goes beyond the common use of prognostic predictions of appropriate compared with small or large for gestational age. The lower the birthweight, the lower the nutrient stores and the more important the need for nutrition support. Compared to term infants, preterm infants at term-equivalent age have a higher percentage of body fat, but this diminishes over the next months. Current research findings support expert recommendations that preterm infants should grow, after early postnatal weight loss, similar to the fetus and then term-born infants, which translates to growth approximately parallel to growth chart curves. There is no need for a trade-off between optimum cognition and optimum future health. Each high-risk infant needs individualized nutrition and growth assessments. This review aims to examine infant growth expectations and messaging for parents of preterm and term-born infants within the broader causal framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanis R Fenton
- Community Health Sciences, O'Brien Institute of Public Health, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
| | | | - Seham Elmrayed
- Community Health Sciences, O'Brien Institute of Public Health, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, American University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Belal Alshaikh
- Community Health Sciences, O'Brien Institute of Public Health, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Farsetti D, Pometti F, Vasapollo B, Novelli GP, Nardini S, Lupoli B, Lees C, Valensise H. Nitric oxide donor increases umbilical vein blood flow and fetal oxygenation in fetal growth restriction. A pilot study. Placenta 2024; 151:59-66. [PMID: 38718734 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.04.014] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To evaluate the maternal and fetal hemodynamic effects of treatment with a nitric oxide donor and oral fluid in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction. METHODS 30 normotensive participants with early fetal growth restriction were enrolled. 15 participants were treated until delivery with transdermal glyceryl trinitrate and oral fluid intake (Treated group), and 15 comprised the untreated group. All women underwent non-invasive assessment of fetal and maternal hemodynamics and repeat evaluation 2 weeks later. RESULTS In the treated group, maternal hemodynamics improved significantly after two weeks of therapy compared to untreated participants. Fetal hemodynamics in the treated group showed an increase in umbilical vein diameter by 18.87 % (p < 0.01), in umbilical vein blood flow by 48.16 % (p < 0.01) and in umbilical vein blood flow corrected for estimated fetal weight by 30.03 % (p < 0.01). In the untreated group, the characteristics of the umbilical vein were unchanged compared to baseline. At the same time, the cerebro-placental ratio increased in the treated group, while it was reduced in the untreated group, compared to baseline values. The treated group showed a higher birthweight centile (p = 0.03) and a lower preeclampsia rate (p = 0.04) compared to the untreated group. DISCUSSION The combined therapeutic approach with nitric oxide donor and oral fluid intake in fetal growth restriction improves maternal hemodynamics, which becomes more hyperdynamic (volume-dominant). At the same time, in the fetal circuit, umbilical vein flow increased and fetal brain sparing improved. Although a modest sample size, there was less preeclampsia and a higher birthweight suggesting beneficial maternal and fetal characteristics of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Farsetti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico Casilino, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Pometti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Vasapollo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico Casilino, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Paolo Novelli
- Department of Integrated Care Processes, Fondazione PTV Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Nardini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Lupoli
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Christoph Lees
- Centre for Fetal Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Herbert Valensise
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico Casilino, Rome, Italy
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White TA, Miller SL, Sutherland AE, Allison BJ, Camm EJ. Perinatal compromise affects development, form, and function of the hippocampus part one; clinical studies. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:1698-1708. [PMID: 38519794 PMCID: PMC11245394 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03105-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The hippocampus is a neuron-rich specialised brain structure that plays a central role in the regulation of emotions, learning and memory, cognition, spatial navigation, and motivational processes. In human fetal development, hippocampal neurogenesis is principally complete by mid-gestation, with subsequent maturation comprising dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis in the third trimester of pregnancy and infancy. Dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis underpin connectivity. Hippocampal development is exquisitely sensitive to perturbations during pregnancy and at birth. Clinical investigations demonstrate that preterm birth, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and acute hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) are common perinatal complications that alter hippocampal development. In turn, deficits in hippocampal development and structure mediate a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including cognitive and learning problems, autism, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In this review, we summarise the developmental profile of the hippocampus during fetal and neonatal life and examine the hippocampal deficits observed following common human pregnancy complications. IMPACT: The review provides a comprehensive summary of the developmental profile of the hippocampus in normal fetal and neonatal life. We address a significant knowledge gap in paediatric research by providing a comprehensive summary of the relationship between pregnancy complications and subsequent hippocampal damage, shedding new light on this critical aspect of early neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegan A White
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Suzanne L Miller
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy E Sutherland
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Beth J Allison
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Emily J Camm
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
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Hong J, Crawford K, Cavanagh E, Clifton V, Kumar S. Prediction of preterm birth in women with fetal growth restriction - Is the weekly change in sFlt-1/PlGF ratio or PlGF levels useful? Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:1112-1119. [PMID: 38483020 PMCID: PMC11103152 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess the rate of change in soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1/placental growth factor (sFlt-1/PlGF) ratio and PlGF levels per week compared to a single sFlt-1/PlGF ratio or PlGF level to predict preterm birth for pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective cohort study of pregnancies complicated by isolated fetal growth restriction. Maternal serum PlGF levels and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio were measured at 4-weekly intervals from recruitment to delivery. We investigated the utility of PlGF levels, sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, change in PlGF levels per week or sFlt-1/PlGF ratio per week. Cox-proportional hazard models and Harrell's C concordance statistic were used to evaluate the effect of biomarkers on time to preterm birth. RESULTS The total study cohort was 158 pregnancies comprising 91 (57.6%) with fetal growth restriction and 67 (42.4%) with appropriate for gestational age controls. In the fetal growth restriction cohort, sFlt-1/PlGF ratio and PlGF levels significantly affected time to preterm birth (Harrell's C: 0.85-0.76). The rate of increase per week of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio (hazard ratio [HR] 3.91, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-10.99, p = 0.01, Harrell's C: 0.74) was positively associated with preterm birth but change in PlGF levels per week was not (HR 0.65, 95% CI: 0.25-1.67, p = 0.37, Harrell's C: 0.68). CONCLUSIONS Both a high sFlt-1/PlGF ratio and low PlGF levels are predictive of preterm birth in women with fetal growth restriction. Although the rate of increase of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio predicts preterm birth, it is not superior to either a single elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratio or low PlGF level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesrine Hong
- Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of MedicineUniversiti MalayaKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Kylie Crawford
- Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Erika Cavanagh
- Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Vicki Clifton
- Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
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Larsen ML, Krebs L, Hoei-Hansen CE, Kumar S. Assessment of fetal growth trajectory identifies infants at high risk of perinatal mortality. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 63:764-771. [PMID: 38339783 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze perinatal risks associated with three distinct scenarios of fetal growth trajectory in the latter half of pregnancy compared with a reference group. METHODS This cohort study included women with a singleton pregnancy that delivered between 32 + 0 and 41 + 6 weeks' gestation and had two or more ultrasound scans, at least 4 weeks apart, from 18 + 0 weeks. We evaluated three different scenarios of fetal growth against a reference group, which comprised appropriate-for-gestational-age fetuses with appropriate forward-growth trajectory. The comparator growth trajectories were categorized as: Group 1, small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses (estimated fetal weight (EFW) or abdominal circumference (AC) persistently < 10th centile) with appropriate forward growth; Group 2, fetuses with decreased growth trajectory (decrease of ≥ 50 centiles) and EFW or AC ≥ 10th centile (i.e. non-SGA) at their final ultrasound scan; and Group 3, fetuses with decreased growth trajectory and EFW or AC < 10th centile (i.e. SGA) at their final scan. The primary outcome was overall perinatal mortality (stillbirth or neonatal death). Secondary outcomes included stillbirth, delivery of a SGA infant, preterm birth, emergency Cesarean section for non-reassuring fetal status and composite severe neonatal morbidity. Associations were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS The final study cohort comprised 5319 pregnancies. Compared to the reference group, the adjusted odds of perinatal mortality were increased significantly in Group 2 (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 4.00 (95% CI, 1.36-11.22)) and Group 3 (aOR, 7.71 (95% CI, 2.39-24.91)). Only Group 3 had increased odds of stillbirth (aOR, 5.69 (95% CI, 1.55-20.93)). In contrast, infants in Group 1 did not have significantly increased odds of demise. The odds of a SGA infant at birth were increased in all three groups compared with the reference group, but was highest in Group 1 (aOR, 111.86 (95% CI, 62.58-199.95)) and Group 3 (aOR, 40.63 (95% CI, 29.01-56.92)). In both groups, more than 80% of infants were born SGA and nearly half had a birth weight < 3rd centile. Likewise, the odds of preterm birth were increased in all three groups compared with the reference group, being highest in Group 3, with an aOR of 4.27 (95% CI, 3.23-5.64). Lastly, the odds of composite severe neonatal morbidity were increased in Groups 1 and 3, whereas the odds of emergency Cesarean section for non-reassuring fetal status were increased only in Group 3. CONCLUSION Assessing the fetal growth trajectory in the latter half of pregnancy can help identify infants at increased risk of perinatal mortality and birth weight < 3rd centile for gestation. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Larsen
- Center for Cerebral Palsy, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager-Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - L Krebs
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C E Hoei-Hansen
- Center for Cerebral Palsy, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Kumar
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Mater Mother's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Schirwani-Hartl N, Tschanun L, Palmrich P, Haberl C, Perkmann-Nagele N, Kiss H, Berger A, Binder J. The Impact of COVID-19 during Pregnancy on Maternal Hemodynamic Function, Angiogenic Markers and Neonatal Outcome. Viruses 2024; 16:868. [PMID: 38932160 PMCID: PMC11209264 DOI: 10.3390/v16060868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) in pregnancy are associated with the development of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Recently, preeclampsia was linked to impaired maternal hemodynamic function. This retrospective study evaluated singleton pregnancies with COVID-19 during pregnancy and healthy pregnant controls matched for gestational age from November 2020 to March 2022. Non-invasive assessment of maternal hemodynamics by continuous wave Doppler ultrasound measurements (USCOM-1A® Monitor) and oscillometric arterial stiffness (Arteriograph) was performed. Overall, 69 pregnant women were included-23 women after COVID-19 during pregnancy and 46 healthy controls. While two women (8.7%) were admitted to the hospital due to COVID-19-related symptoms, none required intensive care unit admission or non-invasive/invasive ventilation. There were no statistically significant differences in the majority of hemodynamic parameters between the two cohorts. The prevalence of FGR was significantly higher in the COVID-19 during pregnancy group (9.5% vs. healthy controls: 0.0%; p = 0.036), especially in nulliparous women. No difference in angiogenic markers and neonatal outcomes were observed between pregnant women after COVID-19 and healthy controls. In conclusion, no significant differences in hemodynamic parameters or neonatal outcome were observed in women with COVID-19 during pregnancy. However, an increased prevalence of FGR could be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawa Schirwani-Hartl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Lena Tschanun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Pilar Palmrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Christina Haberl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
| | | | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Angelika Berger
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Julia Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (N.S.-H.); (L.T.); (P.P.); (C.H.); (H.K.)
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Mappa I, Marra MC, Pietrolucci ME, Angela Lu JL, D'Antonio F, Rizzo G. Effects of umbilical vein flow on midbrain growth and cortical development in late onset fetal growth restricted fetuses: a prospective cross-sectional study. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:423-428. [PMID: 38296222 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0487] [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: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate midbrain growth, including corpus callusum (CC) and cerebellar vermis (CV) and cortical development in late fetal growth restricted (FGR) subclassified according to the umbilical vein blood flow (UVBF) values. METHODS This was a prospective study on singleton fetuses late FGR with abnormal placental cerebral ratio (PCR). FGR fetuses were further subdivided into normal (≥fifth centile) and abnormal ( RESULTS The study cohort included 60 late FGR, 31 with normal UVBF/AC and 29 with abnormal UVBF/AC values. The latter group showed significant differences in CC (median (interquartile range (IQR) normal 0.96 (0.73-1.16) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.60 (0.47-0.87); p<0.0001)), CV (normal 1.04 (0.75-1.26) vs. abnormal UVBF (AC 0.76 (0.62-1.18)); p=0.0319), SF (normal 0.83 (0.74-0.93) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.56 (0.46-0.68); p<0.0001), POF (normal 0.80 (0.71-0.90) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC l 0.49 (0.39-0.90); p≤0.0072) and CF (normal 0.83 (0.56-1.01) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.72 (0.53-0.80); p<0.029). CONCLUSIONS Late onset FGR fetuses with of reduced umbilical vein flow showed shorter CC and CV length and a delayed cortical development when compared to those with normal umbilical vein hemodynamics. These findings support the existence of a link between abnormal brain development and changes in umbilical vein circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Marra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Jia Li Angela Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università di Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università di Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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Lucero-Orozco NB, Reyes-Lagos JJ, Ortíz-Pedroza MDR, Talavera-Peña AK, Abarca-Castro EA, Mendieta-Zerón H, Pliego-Carrillo AC, Rodríguez-Arce J, Zúñiga-Avilés LA, Santiago-Fuentes LM, Ledesma-Ramírez CI, Peña-Castillo MÁ. Analysis of fetal heart rate fluctuations in women diagnosed with preeclampsia during the latent phase of labor. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1340441. [PMID: 38846420 PMCID: PMC11154906 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1340441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fetal heart rate variability (fHRV) is a tool used to investigate the functioning of the fetal autonomic nervous system. Despite the significance of preeclampsia, fHRV during the latent phase of labor has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to evaluate fetal cardiac autonomic activity by using linear and nonlinear indices of fHRV analysis in women diagnosed with preeclampsia without hypertensive treatment during gestation, compared to normotensive women during the latent phase of labor. Methods A cross-sectional and exploratory study was conducted among pregnant women in the latent phase of labor, forming three study groups: normotensive or control (C, 38.8 ± 1.3 weeks of pregnancy, n = 22), preeclampsia with moderate features (P, 37.6 ± 1.4 weeks of pregnancy n = 10), and preeclampsia with severe features (SP, 36.9 ± 1.2 weeks of pregnancy, n = 12). None of the participants received anti-hypertensive treatment during their pregnancy. Linear and nonlinear features of beat-to-beat fHRV, including temporal, frequency, symbolic dynamics, and entropy measures, were analyzed to compare normotensive and preeclamptic groups. Results Significantly lower values of multiscale entropy (MSE) and short-term complexity index (Ci) were observed in the preeclamptic groups compared to the C group (p < 0.05). Additionally, higher values of SDNN (standard deviation of R-R intervals) and higher values of low-frequency power (LF) were found in the P group compared to the C group. Conclusion Our findings indicate that changes in the complexity of fetal heart rate fluctuations may indicate possible disruptions in the autonomic nervous system of fetuses in groups affected by undiagnosed preeclampsia during pregnancy. Reduced complexity and shifts in fetal autonomic cardiac activity could be associated with preeclampsia's pathophysiological mechanisms during the latent phase of labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy B. Lucero-Orozco
- División de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | | | - María del Rocío Ortíz-Pedroza
- División de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ana Karen Talavera-Peña
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma (UAM-L), Lerma de Villada, Mexico
| | - Eric Alonso Abarca-Castro
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma (UAM-L), Lerma de Villada, Mexico
| | - Hugo Mendieta-Zerón
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEMéx), Toluca, Mexico
| | | | - Jorge Rodríguez-Arce
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEMéx), Toluca, Mexico
| | - Luis Adrián Zúñiga-Avilés
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEMéx), Toluca, Mexico
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEMéx), Toluca, Mexico
| | - Laura Mercedes Santiago-Fuentes
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEMéx), Toluca, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Iztapalapa, Mexico
| | | | - Miguel Ángel Peña-Castillo
- División de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Piemonti L, Simonetto C, Bovino A, Pinto A, Garzon S, Grisolia G, Raffaelli R. Agenesis of the ductus venosus and fetal growth restriction: Is there a relation? A tertiary care center experience and systematic review of the literature. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2024. [PMID: 38767265 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
An update on the antenatal diagnosis of agenesis of ductus venosus (ADV) by differentiating the various possible types of shunts, focusing on the associated fetal anomalies, and predicting neonatal outcomes. This study reviewed the experience of two tertiary referral centers and literature. An unfavorable outcome was detected in preterm fetuses (p = 0.017), fetuses with a genetic anomaly (p = 0.046) or other associated malformations (p < 0.001). 71% of ADVs with other anomalies had an extrahepatic ADV (p = 0.002). 76% of fetuses with Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) had an extrahepatic ADV (p = 0.025). ADV may negatively influence fetal growth in cases with extrahepatic vein drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Piemonti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Simonetto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bovino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | - Alessia Pinto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | - Simone Garzon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Grisolia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | - Ricciarda Raffaelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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DeVore GR, Polanco B, Lee W, Fowlkes JB, Peek EE, Putra M, Hobbins JC. Maternal rest improves growth in small-for-gestational-age fetuses (<10th percentile). Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00530-1. [PMID: 38842845 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimal management of fetuses diagnosed as small for gestational age based on an estimated fetal weight of <10th percentile represents a major clinical problem. The standard approach is to increase fetal surveillance with serial biometry and antepartum testing to assess fetal well-being and timing of delivery. Observational studies have indicated that maternal rest in the left lateral position improves maternal cardiac output and uterine blood flow. However, maternal bed rest has not been recommended based on the results of a randomized clinical trial that showed that maternal rest does not improve fetal growth in small-for-gestational-age fetuses. This study was conducted to revisit this question. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether maternal bed rest was associated with an increase in the fetal biometric parameters that reflect growth after the diagnosis of a small-for-gestational-age fetus. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study was conducted on fetuses who were diagnosed as small for gestational age because of an estimated fetal weight of <10th percentile for gestational age. The mothers were asked to rest in the left lateral recumbent position. Fetal biometry was performed 2 weeks after the diagnosis. All fetuses before entry into the study had a previous ultrasound that demonstrated an estimated fetal weight of >10th percentile. To assess the response to bed rest, the change in fetal biometric parameters (estimated fetal weight, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length) after the recommendation of bed rest was computed for 2 periods: (1) before the diagnosis of a weight of <10th percentile vs at the time of diagnosis of a weight of <10th percentile and (2) at the time of diagnosis of a weight of <10th percentile vs 2 weeks after maternal bed rest. For repeated measures, proportions were compared using the McNemar test, and percentile values were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. A P value of <.05 was considered significant. To describe changes in the estimated fetal weight without bed rest, 2 control groups in which the mothers were not placed on bed rest after the diagnosis of a small-for-gestational-age fetus were included. RESULTS A total of 265 fetuses were observed before and after maternal bed rest. The following were observed in this study: (1) after 2 weeks of maternal rest, 199 of 265 fetuses (75%) had a fetal weight of >10th percentile; (2) the median fetal weight percentile increased from 6.8 (interquartile range, 4.4-8.4) to 18.0 (interquartile range, 9.5-29.5) after 2 weeks of bed rest; (3) similar trends were noted for the head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length. In the groups of patients who were not asked to be on bed rest, a reassignment to a weight of >10th percentile at a follow-up examination only occurred in 7 of 37 patients (19%) in the Texas-Michigan group and 13 of 111 patients (12%) in the Colorado group compared with the bed rest group (199/265 [75%]) (P<.001). CONCLUSION Patients who were prescribed 2 weeks of bed rest after the diagnosis of a fetal weight of <10th percentile had an increase in weight of >10th percentile in 199 of 265 fetuses (75%). This increase in fetal weight was significantly higher than that in the 2 control groups in which bed rest was not prescribed. This observation suggests that bed rest improves fetal growth in a subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greggory R DeVore
- Fetal Diagnostic Centers, Pasadena, Tarzana, and Lancaster, CA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI.
| | - Bardo Polanco
- Fetal Diagnostic Centers, Pasadena, Tarzana, and Lancaster, CA
| | - Wesley Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jeffrey Brian Fowlkes
- Departments of Radiology and Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Emma E Peek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Manesha Putra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - John C Hobbins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
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Deepak V, El-Balawi L, Harris LK. Placental Drug Delivery to Treat Pre-Eclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2311165. [PMID: 38745536 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202311165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) continue to cause unacceptably high levels of morbidity and mortality, despite significant pharmaceutical and technological advances in other disease areas. The recent pandemic has also impacted obstetric care, as COVID-19 infection increases the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes. This review explores the reasons why it lacks effective drug treatments for the placental dysfunction that underlies many common obstetric conditions and describes how nanomedicines and targeted drug delivery approaches may provide the solution to the current drug drought. The ever-increasing range of biocompatible nanoparticle formulations available is now making it possible to selectively deliver drugs to uterine and placental tissues and dramatically limit fetal drug transfer. Formulations that are refractory to placental uptake offer the possibility of retaining drugs within the maternal circulation, allowing pregnant individuals to take medicines previously considered too harmful to the developing baby. Liposomes, ionizable lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and adenoviral vectors have all been used to create efficacious drug delivery systems for use in pregnancy, although each approach offers distinct advantages and limitations. It is imperative that recent advances continue to be built upon and that there is an overdue investment of intellectual and financial capital in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkataraman Deepak
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Lujain El-Balawi
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lynda K Harris
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
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De Vos ES, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Van Rijn BB, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic and fetal growth: the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:923-935. [PMID: 38503486 PMCID: PMC11063559 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles? SUMMARY ANSWER Using the utero-placental vascular skeleton (uPVS) as a new imaging marker, this study reveals morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY First-trimester development of the utero-placental vasculature is associated with placental function, which subsequently impacts embryonic and fetal ability to reach their full growth potential. The attribution of morphologic variations in the utero-placental vascular development, including the vascular structure and branching density, on prenatal growth remains unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was conducted in the VIRTUAL Placental study, a subcohort of 214 ongoing pregnancies, embedded in the prospective observational Rotterdam Periconception Cohort (Predict study). Women were included before 10 weeks gestational age (GA) at a tertiary referral hospital in The Netherlands between January 2017 and March 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We obtained three-dimensional power Doppler volumes of the gestational sac including the embryo and the placenta at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation. Virtual Reality-based segmentation and a recently developed skeletonization algorithm were applied to the power Doppler volumes to generate the uPVS and to measure utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV). Absolute vascular morphology was quantified by assigning a morphologic characteristic to each voxel in the uPVS (i.e. end-, bifurcation-crossing-, or vessel point). Additionally, total vascular length (mm) was calculated. The ratios of the uPVS characteristics to the uPVV were calculated to determine the density of vascular branching. Embryonic growth was estimated by crown-rump length and embryonic volume. Embryonic development was estimated by Carnegie stages. Fetal growth was measured by estimated fetal weight in the second and third trimester and birth weight percentiles. Linear mixed models were used to estimate trajectories of longitudinal measurements. Linear regression analysis with adjustments for confounders was used to evaluate associations between trajectories of the uPVS and prenatal growth. Groups were stratified for conception method (natural/IVF-ICSI conceptions), fetal sex (male/female), and the occurrence of placenta-related complications (yes/no). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Increased absolute vascular morphologic development, estimated by positive random intercepts of the uPVS characteristics, is associated with increased embryonic growth, reflected by crown-rump length (endpoints β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.009; 0.025], bifurcation points β = 0.012, 95% CI [0.006; 0.018], crossing points β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.008; 0.025], vessel points β = 0.01, 95% CI [0.002; 0.008], and total vascular length β = 0.007, 95% CI [0.003; 0.010], and similarly with embryonic volume and Carnegie stage, all P-values ≤ 0.01. Density of vascular branching was negatively associated with estimated fetal weight in the third trimester (endpoints: uPVV β = -94.972, 95% CI [-185.245; -3.698], bifurcation points: uPVV β = -192.601 95% CI [-360.532; -24.670]) and birth weight percentiles (endpoints: uPVV β = -20.727, 95% CI [-32.771; -8.683], bifurcation points: uPVV β -51.097 95% CI [-72.257; -29.937], and crossing points: uPVV β = -48.604 95% CI [-74.246; -22.961])), all P-values < 0.05. After stratification, the associations were observed in natural conceptions specifically. LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although the results of this prospective observational study clearly demonstrate associations between first-trimester utero-placental vascular morphologic development and prenatal growth, further research is required before we can draw firm conclusions about a causal relationship. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings support the hypothesis that morphologic variations in utero-placental vascular development play a role in the vascular mechanisms involved in embryonic and fetal growth and development. Application of the uPVS could benefit our understanding of the pathophysiology underlying placenta-related complications. Future research should focus on the clinical applicability of the uPVS as an imaging marker for the early detection of fetal growth restriction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. There are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR6854).
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Affiliation(s)
- E S De Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B B Van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Sahin ME, Sahin E, Kirlangic MM, Ak M, Daglıtuncezdi Cam S, Cundubey CR, Col Madendag I, Madendag Y. Fetal Diaphragmatic Excursion Is Decreased in Hospitalized Pregnant Women Infected with COVID-19 during the Second and Third Trimesters. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e1384-e1389. [PMID: 36724872 DOI: 10.1055/a-2024-0907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the present study, we aimed to evaluate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection effects on fetal diaphragm thickness and diaphragmatic excursion, which together show the quality of diaphragmatic contractions. STUDY DESIGN One hundred and ninety-two pregnant women were included in this prospective case-control study. Patients were divided into four groups according to their COVID-19 infection history in their second or third trimester: hospitalized COVID-19-infected pregnant women group (n = 48), outpatient COVID-19-infected pregnant women group (n = 48), common cold (COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction negative) pregnant women group (n = 48), and noninfected healthy controls (n = 48). The number of patients was determined by power analysis following the pilot study. All participants underwent an ultrasound examination to determine fetal diaphragm parameters at 32 to 37 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Demographic characteristics were similar among the four groups. The gestational age at ultrasound examination and gestational age at delivery were similar among the groups. Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission rate was significantly higher in the hospitalized COVID-19-infected pregnant women group than the other groups. The fetal diaphragm thickness during inspiration and expiration, and fetal costophrenic angles at inspiration and expiration were similar among the groups. Fetal diaphragmatic excursion was significantly decreased in the hospitalized COVID-19-infected pregnant women group compared with the other groups. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that moderate maternal COVID-19 infection decreased fetal diaphragmatic excursion, and ultrasonographic evaluation of fetal diaphragmatic excursion before delivery can provide critical information to predict whether infants will require NICU admission. KEY POINTS · Diaphragm ultrasound as a new technique for characterizing the diaphragm's structure and function.. · Fetal diaphragmatic excursion is decreased in the presence of moderate COVID-19 infection.. · Ultrasonographic evaluation of fetal diaphragmatic excursion provides critical information to predict NICU admission..
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erdem Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet M Kirlangic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kartal Dr. Lutfu Kirdar City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Cevat R Cundubey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Col Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Ramirez Zegarra R, Carbone IF, Angeli L, Gigli F, Di Ilio C, Barba O, Cassardo O, Valentini B, Ferrazzi E, Ghi T. Association of umbilical vein flow with abnormal fetal growth and adverse perinatal outcome in low-risk population: multicenter prospective study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 63:627-634. [PMID: 37963279 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship of umbilical vein flow (UVF) measured close to term with abnormal fetal growth and adverse perinatal outcome in a cohort of pregnancies at low risk of placental insufficiency. METHODS This was a prospective multicenter observational study conducted across two tertiary maternity units. Patients with a singleton appropriate-for-gestational-age fetus between 35 and 38 weeks' gestation were included. Pregnancies at higher risk of placental insufficiency or with fetal anomalies were excluded. At ultrasound examination, the abdominal circumference (AC), umbilical vein diameter and peak velocity of the umbilical vein were measured, and, using these variables, a new variable, UVF/AC, was calculated. The primary outcome was the occurrence of severely stunted fetal growth, defined as a greater than 40-percentile drop between estimated fetal weight at the third-trimester ultrasound and birth weight. The occurrence of adverse perinatal outcome (defined as one of the following: neonatal acidosis (umbilical artery pH < 7.15 and/or base excess > 12 mmol/L) at birth, 5-min Apgar score < 7, neonatal resuscitation or neonatal intensive care unit admission) was analyzed as a secondary outcome. RESULTS Between April 2021 and March 2023, 365 women were included in the study. The mean UVF/AC at enrolment was 6.4 ± 2.6 mL/min/cm, and 35 (9.6%) cases were affected by severely stunted fetal growth. Severely stunted fetal growth was associated with a lower mean UVF/AC (5.4 ± 2.6 vs 6.5 ± 2.6 mL/min/cm; P = 0.02) and a higher frequency of UVF/AC < 10th percentile (8/35 (22.9%) vs 28/330 (8.5%); P = 0.01). Moreover, UVF/AC showed an area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC) of 0.65 (95% CI, 0.55-0.75; P = 0.004) in predicting the occurrence of severely stunted fetal growth, and the optimal cut-off value of UVF/AC for discriminating between normal and severely stunted fetal growth was 7.2 mL/min/cm. This value was associated with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.60-0.90) and 0.33 (95% CI, 0.28-0.39), and positive and negative predictive values of 0.11 (95% CI, 0.07-0.15) and 0.93 (95% CI, 0.87-0.97), respectively. Regarding the occurrence of adverse perinatal outcome, this was associated independently with maternal age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 0.93 (95% CI, 0.87-0.99); P = 0.04), UVF/AC Z-score (aOR, 0.53 (95% CI, 0.30-0.87); P = 0.01) and augmentation of labor (aOR, 2.69 (95% CI, 1.28-5.69); P = 0.009). UVF/AC showed an AUC of 0.65 (95% CI, 0.56-0.73; P = 0.005) in predicting the occurrence of adverse perinatal outcome, and the optimal cut-off value of UVF/AC for discriminating between normal and adverse perinatal outcome was 6.7 mL/min/cm. This value was associated with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.54-0.83) and 0.40 (95% CI, 0.34-0.45), and positive and negative predictive values of 0.14 (95% CI, 0.09-0.19) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.85-0.95), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate an association between reduced UVF close to term, severely stunted fetal growth and adverse perinatal outcome in a cohort of low-risk pregnant women, with a moderate ability to rule out and a poor ability to rule in either outcome. Further studies are needed to establish whether the assessment of UVF can improve the identification of fetuses at risk of subclinical placental insufficiency and adverse perinatal outcome. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ramirez Zegarra
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - I F Carbone
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - L Angeli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - F Gigli
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - C Di Ilio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Department Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - O Barba
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - O Cassardo
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - B Valentini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - E Ferrazzi
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - T Ghi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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