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Agarwal D, Hunt ML, Sridharan A, Larson AC, Rychik J, Licht DJ, Davey MG, Flake AW, Gaynor JW, Didier RA. Unique model of chronic hypoxia in fetal lambs demonstrates abnormal contrast-enhanced ultrasound brain perfusion. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03206-3. [PMID: 38849480 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03206-3] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) demonstrate long-term neurodevelopmental impairments. We investigated contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) cerebral perfusion in a fetal animal model exposed to sub-physiologic oxygen at equivalent levels observed in human fetuses with CHD. METHODS Fifteen fetal lambs [hypoxic animals (n = 9) and normoxic controls (n = 6)] maintained in an extrauterine environment underwent periodic brain CEUS. Perfusion parameters including microvascular flow velocity (MFV), transit time, and microvascular blood flow (MBF) were extrapolated from a standardized plane; regions of interest (ROI) included whole brain, central/thalami, and peripheral parenchymal analyses. Daily echocardiographic parameters and middle cerebral artery (MCA) pulsatility indices (PIs) were obtained. RESULTS Hypoxic lambs demonstrated decreased MFV, increased transit time, and decreased MBF (p = 0.026, p = 0.016, and p < 0.001, respectively) by whole brain analyses. MFV and transit time were relatively preserved in the central/thalami (p = 0.11, p = 0.08, p = 0.012, respectively) with differences in the peripheral parenchyma (all p < 0.001). In general, cardiac variables did not correlate with cerebral CEUS perfusion parameters. Hypoxic animals demonstrated decreased MCA PI compared to controls (0.65 vs. 0.78, respectively; p = 0.027). CONCLUSION Aberrations in CEUS perfusion parameters suggest that in environments of prolonged hypoxia, there are regional microvascular differences incompletely characterized by MCA interrogation offering insights into fetal conditions which may contribute to patient outcomes. IMPACT This work utilizes CEUS to study cerebral microvascular perfusion in a unique fetal animal model subjected to chronic hypoxic conditions equal to fetuses with congenital heart disease. CEUS demonstrates altered parameters with regional differences that are incompletely characterized by MCA Doppler values. These findings show that routine MCA Doppler interrogation may be inadequate in assessing microvascular perfusion differences. To our knowledge, this study is the first to utilize CEUS to assess microvascular perfusion in this model. The results offer insight into underlying conditions and physiological changes which may contribute to known neurodevelopmental impairments in those with congenital heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyansh Agarwal
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mallory L Hunt
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anush Sridharan
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Abby C Larson
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jack Rychik
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel J Licht
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marcus G Davey
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alan W Flake
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J William Gaynor
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryne A Didier
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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2
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Aliasi M, Mastenbroek M, Papakosta S, van Geloven N, Haak MC. Birthweight of children with isolated congenital heart disease-A sibling analysis study. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:639-646. [PMID: 36811197 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Congenital heart disease (CHD) is associated with decreased birthweight (BW) compared to population-based references. The aim of this study was to compare the BW of isolated CHD cases to their siblings, thus controlling for unknown and unmeasured confounders within the family. METHODS All isolated CHD cases in the Leiden University Medical Center were included (2002-2019). Generalized estimated equation models were constructed to compare BW z scores of CHD neonates with their siblings. Cases were clustered to minor or severe CHD and stratified according to the aortic flow and oxygenation to the brain. RESULTS The overall BW z score of siblings was 0.032 (n = 471). The BW z score was significantly lower in CHD cases (n = 291) compared to their siblings (-0.20, p = 0.005). The results were consistent in the subgroup analysis of severe and minor CHD (BW z score difference -0.20 and -0.10), but did not differ significantly (p = 0.63). Stratified analysis regarding flow and oxygenation showed no BW difference between the groups (p = 0.1). CONCLUSION Isolated CHD cases display a significantly lower BW z score compared to their siblings. As the siblings of these CHD cases show a BW distribution similar to the general population, this suggests that shared environmental and maternal influences between siblings do not explain the difference in BW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moska Aliasi
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Malou Mastenbroek
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Styliani Papakosta
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nan van Geloven
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Monique C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Ortinau CM, Smyser CD, Arthur L, Gordon EE, Heydarian HC, Wolovits J, Nedrelow J, Marino BS, Levy VY. Optimizing Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Neonates With Congenital Heart Disease. Pediatrics 2022; 150:e2022056415L. [PMID: 36317967 PMCID: PMC10435013 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-056415l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental impairment is a common and important long-term morbidity among infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). More than half of those with complex CHD will demonstrate some form of neurodevelopmental, neurocognitive, and/or psychosocial dysfunction requiring specialized care and impacting long-term quality of life. Preventing brain injury and treating long-term neurologic sequelae in this high-risk clinical population is imperative for improving neurodevelopmental and psychosocial outcomes. Thus, cardiac neurodevelopmental care is now at the forefront of clinical and research efforts. Initial research primarily focused on neurocritical care and operative strategies to mitigate brain injury. As the field has evolved, investigations have shifted to understanding the prenatal, genetic, and environmental contributions to impaired neurodevelopment. This article summarizes the recent literature detailing the brain abnormalities affecting neurodevelopment in children with CHD, the impact of genetics on neurodevelopmental outcomes, and the best practices for neonatal neurocritical care, focusing on developmental care and parental support as new areas of importance. A framework is also provided for the infrastructure and resources needed to support CHD families across the continuum of care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M. Ortinau
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Christopher D. Smyser
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lindsay Arthur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Erin E. Gordon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Haleh C. Heydarian
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Joshua Wolovits
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jonathan Nedrelow
- Department of Neonatology, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Bradley S. Marino
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Divisions of Cardiology and Critical Care Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
| | - Victor Y. Levy
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Palo Alto, California
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4
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Omann C, Nyboe C, Kristensen R, Ernst A, Ramlau-Hansen CH, Rask C, Tabor A, Gaynor JW, Hjortdal VE. Pre-eclampsia is associated with increased neurodevelopmental disorders in children with congenital heart disease. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL OPEN 2022; 2:oeac027. [PMID: 35919351 PMCID: PMC9242033 DOI: 10.1093/ehjopen/oeac027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Our primary aim was to examine whether exposure to pre-eclampsia increases the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born with congenital heart disease (CHD). Our secondary aim was to evaluate whether CHD and pre-eclampsia may act in synergy and potentiate this risk. METHOD AND RESULTS Using population-based registries, we included all Danish children born with CHD between 1994 and 2017. Non-singletons and children born with a syndrome were excluded. Neurodevelopmental disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and tic disorders were identified with the use of the 10th edition of International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) codes DF80-DF98. Using Cox proportional hazard regression, we estimated the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children with CHD exposed to pre-eclampsia compared with those with CHD not exposed to pre-eclampsia. The population consisted of 11 449 children born with CHD. Children exposed to pre-eclampsia had an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, hazard ratio: 1.84 (95% confidence interval: 1.39-2.42). Furthermore, a comparison cohort of 113 713 children with no CHD diagnoses were included. Using cumulative incidence analyses with death as competing risk, we compared the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders if exposed to pre-eclampsia among children with CHD and children without CHD. Exposure to pre-eclampsia drastically increased the cumulative incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born with CHD. CONCLUSION Exposure to pre-eclampsia is associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born with CHD. CHD and pre-eclampsia may act in synergy and potentiate this effect. Clinicians should therefore be especially attentive to neurodevelopmental problems in this vulnerable subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Omann
- Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Camilla Nyboe
- Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Kristensen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Ernst
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Charlotte Rask
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ann Tabor
- Center of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J. William Gaynor
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vibeke E. Hjortdal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Aliasi M, Snoep MC, van Geloven N, Haak MC. Birthweight and isolated congenital heart defects - A systematic review and meta-analysis. BJOG 2022; 129:1805-1816. [PMID: 35352871 PMCID: PMC9542320 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Birthweight (BW) is an important prognostic factor in newborns with congenital heart defects (CHD). Objectives To give an overview of the literature on BW z‐score in children with isolated CHD. Search strategy A systematic search was performed on isolated CHD and BW in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, COCHRANE Library and Emcare. Selection criteria Neonates with isolated CHD were included if a BW percentile, BW z‐score or % small‐or‐gestational age (SGA) was reported. Data collection and analysis BW z‐score and percentage SGA were pooled with random‐effect meta‐analysis. Quality and risk of bias were assessed using the modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Main results Twenty‐three articles (27 893 cases) were included. BW z‐scores were retrieved from 11 articles, resulting in a pooled z‐score of −0.20 (95% CI −0.50 to 0.11). The overall pooled prevalence of SGA <10th percentile was 16.0% (95% CI 11.4–20.5; 14 studies). Subgroup analysis of major CHD showed similar results (BW z‐score −0.23 and percentage SGA 16.2%). Conclusions Overall BW in isolated CHD is within range of normality but impaired, with a 1.6‐fold higher risk of SGA, irrespective of the type of CHD (major CHD vs all CHD combined). Our findings underline the association between CHD and BW. The use of BW z‐scores provides insight into growth of all fetuses with CHD. Tweetable abstract Infants with a congenital heart defect (CHD) have a lower birthweight z‐score and a higher incidence of small‐for‐gestational age (<10th percentile). This was encountered both in the major CHD‐group as well as in all‐CHD combined group analysis. Future research on the association between birthweight and CHD should include all types of CHDs (including mild cardiac defects) and placental‐related disease, such as pre‐eclampsia. We advocate the use of international standardised fetal growth and birthweight charts in CHD research. Infants with a congenital heart defect (CHD) have a lower birthweight z‐score and a higher incidence of small‐for‐gestational age (<10th percentile). This was encountered both in the major CHD‐group as well as in all‐CHD combined group analysis. Future research on the association between birthweight and CHD should include all types of CHDs (including mild cardiac defects) and placental‐related disease, such as pre‐eclampsia. We advocate the use of international standardised fetal growth and birthweight charts in CHD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moska Aliasi
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje C Snoep
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nan van Geloven
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Monique C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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6
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Udholm LF, Gaml‐Sørensen A, Arendt LH, Brix N, Lunddorf LLH, Ernst A, Knudsen UB, Hjortdal VE, Ramlau‐Hansen CH. Timing of Pubertal Development in Boys and Girls With Congenital Heart Defects: A Nationwide Cohort Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e023135. [PMID: 35347999 PMCID: PMC9075439 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.023135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Children with congenital heart defects (CHD) have an increased risk of developmental delay. It remains sparsely investigated if these patients also have a delayed pubertal development. In this nationwide cohort study, we evaluated if CHD was associated with timing of puberty using longitudinally collected data on pubertal milestones. Methods and Results We used data from the Danish nationwide Puberty Cohort. Information on CHD was obtained from the Danish National Patient Register. Information on pubertal development was obtained from 15 780 children through questionnaires answered half‐yearly from 11 years until 18 years or full maturity. Using a multivariable regression model for censored time‐to‐event data, mean difference in age at attaining each pubertal milestone was estimated, including a combined pubertal marker. Compared with children without CHD, analyses were performed for both CHD overall and subdivided into simple and complex CHD. In a subanalysis, analyses were repeated in children born at term. In total, 137 children (62 boys and 75 girls) had a CHD diagnosis. Overall, no difference in age at pubertal timing was observed for children with CHD compared with unaffected children. The average differences were small for both boys (1.6 [95% CI, −2.6 to 5.7] months) and girls (1.0 [95% CI, −2.5 to 4.4] months). The same differences were observed when subdividing into simple or complex CHD and when restricting to children born at term. Conclusions We found no association between CHD and pubertal timing. For the group of children with complex CHD, we were unable to exclude a later pubertal timing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise F. Udholm
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Copenhagen University Hospital Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine Copenhagen University Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Anne Gaml‐Sørensen
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Linn H. Arendt
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Horsens Regional Hospital Horsens Denmark
| | - Nis Brix
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
| | - Lea L. H. Lunddorf
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Andreas Ernst
- Department of Public Health Research Unit for Epidemiology Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Ulla B. Knudsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Horsens Regional Hospital Horsens Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Vibeke E. Hjortdal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Copenhagen University Hospital Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine Copenhagen University Copenhagen Denmark
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Ottolenghi S, Milano G, Cas MD, Findley TO, Paroni R, Corno AF. Can Erythropoietin Reduce Hypoxemic Neurological Damages in Neonates With Congenital Heart Defects? Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:770590. [PMID: 34912224 PMCID: PMC8666450 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.770590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart defects (CHD), the most common cause of birth defects with increasing birth prevalence, affect nearly 1% of live births worldwide. Cyanotic CHD are characterized by hypoxemia, with subsequent reduced oxygen delivery to the brain, especially critical during brain development, beginning in the fetus and continuing through the neonatal period. Therefore, neonates with CHD carry a high risk for neurological comorbidities, even more frequently when there are associated underlying genetic disorders. We review the currently available knowledge on potential prevention strategies to reduce brain damage induced by hypoxemia during fetal development and immediately after birth, and the role of erythropoietin (EPO) as a potential adjunctive treatment. Maternal hyper-oxygenation had been studied as a potential therapeutic to improve fetal oxygenation. Despite demonstrating some effectiveness, maternal hyper-oxygenation has proven to be impractical for extensive clinical application, thus prompting the investigation of specific pathways for pharmacological intervention. Among those, the role of antioxidant pathways and Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIF) have been studied for their involvement in the protective response to hypoxic injury. One of the proteins induced by HIF, EPO, has properties of being anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and protective for neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. In human trials, EPO administration in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) significantly reduced the neurological hypoxemic damages in several reported studies. Currently, it is unknown if the mechanisms of pathophysiology of cyanotic CHD are like HIE. Neonates with cyanotic CHD are exposed to both chronic hypoxemia and episodes of acute ischemia-reperfusion injury when undergo cardiopulmonary bypass surgery requiring aortic cross-clamp and general anesthesia. Our review supports future trials to evaluate the potential efficiency of EPO in reducing the hypoxemic neurologic damages in neonates with CHD. Furthermore, it suggests the need to identify early biomarkers of hypoxia-induced neurological damage, which must be sensitive to the neuroprotective effects of EPO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ottolenghi
- Department of Health Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Milano
- Department Cœur-Vaisseaux, Cardiac Surgery Center, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michele Dei Cas
- Department of Health Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Tina O Findley
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Heart Institute, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rita Paroni
- Department of Health Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio F Corno
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Heart Institute, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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8
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Xia F, Guo Y, He H, Chen P, Shao J, Xia W. Reference biometry of foetal brain by prenatal MRI and the distribution of measurements in foetuses with ventricular septal defect. Ann Med 2021; 53:1428-1437. [PMID: 34414830 PMCID: PMC8381939 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.1969590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide the reference biometric measurements of the normal foetal brain by prenatal MRI and describe the distribution of measurements in the foetuses with ventricular septal defect (VSD). METHODS This retrospective study analysed the biometric measurements of 218 foetuses between 18 - 37 gestational weeks with normal MRI findings from July 2014 to August 2019, as well as 18 foetuses with VSD. The measurements included fronto-occipital diameter (FOD), biparietal diameter (BPD), and transverse cerebellar diameter (TCD). All the prenatal MRI examinations have been taken on the same 1.5 T MR unit with a standard protocol of the foetal brain. All the linear measurements of the foetal brain were obtained on the T2-weighted imaging. The distribution of measurements in 18 foetuses with VSD was plotted on centile curves. RESULTS The reference data were presented in mean, standard deviation, 95% predicted confidence intervals, and the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, 97th centiles at each gestational age. The value of TCD in 56% (10/18 cases) foetuses with VSD was lower than the 3rd centile, and the rate for FOD and BPD was 33% (6/18 cases) and 22% (4/18 cases) separately. On the curves, most VSD cases with measurements lower than the 3rd centile were in relatively early gestational stage (≤28 weeks). CONCLUSIONS We have presented reference linear biometry of the foetal brain by prenatal MRI from 18 to 37 gestational weeks, which could help us to interpret and monitor the brain development for foetuses with VSD and other congenital heart diseases.Key messages:We have presented reference linear biometry of the foetal brain by prenatal MRI from 18 to 37 gestational weeks in multiple statistical methods: mean and standard deviation; 95% predicted confidence intervals and the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, 97th centiles.Our data showed that the involvement of the brain in VSD may be not globally, but regionally, and the cerebellum may be more possible to be involved.We speculated that the earlier the VSD diagnosed the worse the brain involved, which might suggest a poor outcome and necessary follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xia
- Department of Radiology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Guo
- Department of Imaging Center, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua He
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiwen Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianbo Shao
- Department of Imaging Center, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Imaging Center, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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9
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Lee FT, Seed M, Sun L, Marini D. Fetal brain issues in congenital heart disease. Transl Pediatr 2021; 10:2182-2196. [PMID: 34584890 PMCID: PMC8429876 DOI: 10.21037/tp-20-224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the improvements in the clinical management of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) and their increased survival, neurodevelopmental outcome has become an emerging priority in pediatric cardiology. Large-scale efforts have been made to protect the brain during the postnatal, surgical, and postoperative period; however, the presence of brain immaturity and injury at birth suggests in utero and peripartum disturbances. Over the past decade, there has been considerable interest and investigations on fetal brain growth in the setting of CHD. Advancements in fetal brain imaging have identified abnormal brain development in fetuses with CHD from the macrostructural (brain volumes and cortical folding) down to the microstructural (biochemistry and water diffusivity) scale, with more severe forms of CHD showing worse disturbances and brain abnormalities starting as early as the first trimester. Anomalies in common genetic developmental pathways and diminished cerebral substrate delivery secondary to altered cardiovascular physiology are the forefront hypotheses, but other factors such as impaired placental function and maternal psychological stress have surfaced as important contributors to fetal brain immaturity in CHD. The characterization and timing of fetal brain disturbances and their associated mechanisms are important steps for determining preventative prenatal interventions, which may provide a stronger foundation for the developing brain during childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Tsuen Lee
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mike Seed
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Liqun Sun
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Davide Marini
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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10
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Matthiesen NB, Østergaard JR, Hjortdal VE, Henriksen TB. Congenital Heart Defects and the Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Birth. J Pediatr 2021; 229:168-174.e5. [PMID: 32980375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2020.09.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the association between major types of congenital heart defects (CHD) and spontaneous preterm birth, and to assess the potential underlying mechanisms. STUDY DESIGN This nationwide, registry-based study included a cohort of all singleton pregnancies in Denmark from 1997 to 2013. The association between CHD and spontaneous preterm birth was estimated by multivariable Cox regression, adjusted for potential confounders. The following potential mechanisms were examined: maternal genetics (sibling analyses), polyhydramnios, preterm prelabor rupture of membranes, preeclampsia, and indicators of fetal and placental growth. RESULTS The study included 1 040 474 births. Compared with the general population, CHD was associated with an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, adjusted hazard ratio 2.1 (95% CI, 1.9-2.4). Several subtypes were associated with increased risks, including pulmonary stenosis combined with a septal defect, 5.2 (95% CI, 3.7-7.5); pulmonary stenosis or atresia, 3.1 (95% CI, 2.4-4.1); tetralogy of Fallot 2.5 (95% CI, 1.6-3.8); coarctation or interrupted aortic arch 2.2 (95% CI, 1.5-3.2); and hypoplastic left heart syndrome, 2.0 (95% CI, 1.0-4.1). Overall, preterm prelabor rupture of membranes mediated more than one-half of the association. Maternal genetics, polyhydramnios, or indicators of fetal or placental growth did not explain the reported associations. CONCLUSIONS CHD, especially right ventricular outflow tract obstructions, were associated with an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth. The risk was carried by the CHD and not by maternal genetics. Moreover, preterm prelabor rupture of membranes was identified as a potential underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels B Matthiesen
- Perinatal Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark.
| | - John R Østergaard
- Center for Rare Diseases, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Vibeke E Hjortdal
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tine B Henriksen
- Perinatal Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Placental origins of neonatal diseases: toward a precision medicine approach. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:377-383. [PMID: 33288874 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01293-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is the single most reliable source for precise information on intrauterine environment, as well as maternal and fetal health. It mediates the physiology of two distinct yet highly interconnected individuals. The pathology that develops in the placenta, and the adaptations the placenta undergoes to mitigate this pathology, may influence the later life health of the mother and baby. Pathological placental examination provides a unique opportunity to explore and understand the intrauterine environment, as well as providing a record of events that may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. A number of placental lesions have been described in association with various neonatal morbidities. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence for the association of placental pathologic lesions with neurodevelopmental outcomes infants with specific neonatal morbidities, including (1) neonatal encephalopathy, (2) bronchopulmonary dysplasia, (3) congenital heart diseases, and (4) autism spectrum disorders. For each of these disease processes, we will also propose specific research priorities in future studies. We conclude with a hospital-specific protocol for triaging which placentas should receive histological evaluation as a fundamental first step for the field of neuroplacentology to guide precision-based therapeutic approaches in the affected newborns. IMPACT: The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence for placental origins of neonatal diseases. We propose specific research priorities in the field of neuroplacentology in future studies. We also present a targeted hospital-based approach for triaging which placentas should receive histological evaluation.
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12
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Ehrler M, von Rhein M, Schlosser L, Brugger P, Greutmann M, Kretschmar O, Latal B, Tuura O'Gorman R. Microstructural alterations of the corticospinal tract are associated with poor motor function in patients with severe congenital heart disease. NEUROIMAGE: CLINICAL 2021; 32:102885. [PMID: 34911191 PMCID: PMC8628013 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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13
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Ortinau CM, Shimony JS. The Congenital Heart Disease Brain: Prenatal Considerations for Perioperative Neurocritical Care. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 108:23-30. [PMID: 32107137 PMCID: PMC7306416 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Altered brain development has been highlighted as an important contributor to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with congenital heart disease. Abnormalities begin prenatally and include micro- and macrostructural disturbances that lead to an altered trajectory of brain growth throughout gestation. Recent progress in fetal imaging has improved understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms and risk factors for impaired fetal brain development. The impact of the prenatal environment on postnatal neurological care has also gained increased focus. This review summarizes current data on the timing and pattern of altered prenatal brain development in congenital heart disease, the potential mechanisms of these abnormalities, and the association with perioperative neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Ortinau
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.
| | - Joshua S Shimony
- Mallinkrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Campbell M, Ronai C, Punn R, Tacy T, Tworetzky W, Madriago E. Cerebrovascular blood flow in patients with tetralogy of fallot: prediction for early surgical intervention. Prenat Diagn 2019; 39:1184-1190. [PMID: 31525255 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Children with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) require initial intervention at varying times reflecting a spectrum of obstruction to pulmonary blood flow. In utero, fetal patients with right sided obstructive lesions demonstrate increased middle cerebral artery (MCA) pulsatility index (PI). We sought to determine whether MCA flow patterns are associated with the degree of pulmonary obstruction and the consequential need for early surgical intervention (ESI). METHODS We performed a multi-center retrospective study evaluating patients with a prenatal diagnosis of TOF. All echocardiographic fetal studies performed from 16 weeks' gestational age through delivery were reviewed between 2001 and 2015 with subsequent postnatal medical chart review. RESULTS 82 patients met inclusion criteria. Patients who ultimately required ESI (n=30) demonstrated an increased MCA PI z-score (-0.68 vs -1.32, p=0.02) compared to those who did not (n=52). An elevated MCA PI in patients with TOF was associated with ESI after 24 weeks' gestational age (-0.36 vs -1.22, p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS Fetal patients with TOF demonstrate altered MCA flow that correlates with need for ESI. This effect is blunted earlier in gestation which may reflect cerebral autoregulation. MCA PI may be a beneficial tool in helping determine perinatal management and counseling for patients with TOF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rajesh Punn
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Theresa Tacy
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Wayne Tworetzky
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erin Madriago
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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