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Hall M, Hutter J, Uus A, du Crest E, Egloff A, Suff N, Al Adnani M, Seed PT, Gibbons D, Deprez M, Tribe RM, Shennan A, Rutherford M, Story L. Adrenal volumes in fetuses delivering prior to 32 weeks' gestation: An MRI pilot study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:512-521. [PMID: 38009386 PMCID: PMC10867361 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14733] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spontaneous preterm birth prior to 32 weeks' gestation accounts for 1% of all deliveries and is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. A total of 70% are associated with chorioamnionitis which increases the incidence of morbidity, but for which there is no noninvasive antenatal test. Fetal adrenal glands produce cortisol and dehydroepiandosterone-sulphate which upregulate prior to spontaneous preterm birth. Ultrasound suggests that adrenal volumes may increase prior to preterm birth, but studies are limited. This study aimed to: (i) demonstrate reproducibility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) derived adrenal volumetry; (ii) derive normal ranges of total adrenal volumes, and adrenal: body volume for normal; (iii) compare with those who have spontaneous very preterm birth; and (iv) correlate with histopathological chorioamnionitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients at high risk of preterm birth prior to 32 weeks were prospectively recruited, and included if they did deliver prior to 32 weeks; a control group who delivered an uncomplicated pregnancy at term was also recruited. T2 weighted images of the entire uterus were obtained, and a deformable slice-to-volume method was used to reconstruct the fetal abdomen. Adrenal and body volumes were obtained via manual segmentation, and adrenal: body volume ratios generated. Normal ranges were created using control data. Differences between groups were investigated accounting for the effect of gestation by use of regression analysis. Placental histopathology was reviewed for pregnancies delivering preterm. RESULTS A total of 56 controls and 26 cases were included in the analysis. Volumetry was consistent between observers. Adrenal volumes were not higher in the case group (p = 0.2); adrenal: body volume ratios were higher (p = 0.011), persisting in the presence of chorioamnionitis (p = 0.017). A cluster of three pairs of adrenal glands below the fifth centile were noted among the cases all of whom had a protracted period at risk of preterm birth prior to MRI. CONCLUSIONS Adrenal: body volume ratios are significantly larger in fetuses who go on to deliver preterm than those delivering at term. Adrenal volumes were not significantly larger, we hypothesize that this could be due to an adrenal atrophy in fetuses with fulminating chorioamnionitis. A straightforward relationship of adrenal size being increased prior to preterm birth should not be assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Hall
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jana Hutter
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Alena Uus
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Elise du Crest
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Alexia Egloff
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Natalie Suff
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Mudher Al Adnani
- Department of Cellular PathologySt Thomas' Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Paul T. Seed
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Deena Gibbons
- Department of ImmunobiologyKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Maria Deprez
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Rachel M. Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Andrew Shennan
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Mary Rutherford
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Lisa Story
- Center for the Developing BrainSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSt Thomas' Hospital, King's College LondonLondonUK
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Oelmeier K, Möllers M, Köster HA, Willy D, Bormann E, Braun J, Klockenbusch W, Schmitz R. Fetal adrenal gland size and umbilical artery Doppler in growth-restricted fetuses. J Perinat Med 2023; 51:340-345. [PMID: 35962947 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0203] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In fetal growth restriction (FGR), Doppler ultrasound is the most important method for the detection and management. However, additional parameters are needed to improve the distinction between constitutionally small fetuses and fetuses affected by FGR. METHODS A total of 445 singleton pregnancies between 23 and 40 weeks of gestation were included in our retrospective study, of which 67 with FGR and 378 normal fetuses. A 2D-plane of the fetal adrenal gland was obtained and the adrenal gland ratio was measured. Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the association of fetal Doppler and adrenal gland ratio with outcome parameters. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the statistical significance of "PI of the umbilical artery" and "adrenal gland ratio" as prognostic factors for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). RESULTS PI of the umbilical artery was shown to correlate with outcome parameters (WG_Delivery: r=-0.125, p=0.008; birth weight: r=-0.268, p<0.001; birth weight centile: r=-0.248, p<0.001; APGAR at 5 min: r=-0.117, p=0.014). Adrenal gland ratio showed no correlation with any of the outcome parameters. In logistic regression however, both PI of the umbilical artery and the adrenal ratio were shown to be significantly associated with fetal IUGR. When combining the two parameters, predictive value was superior to the predictive value of each individual parameter (AUC 0.738 [95% CI 0.670; 0.806]). CONCLUSIONS The adrenal gland ratio can be a useful addition to Doppler ultrasound when it comes to the detection of fetal FGR. Prospective studies are needed to establish references ranges and cut-off values for clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Oelmeier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mareike Möllers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Helen A Köster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Daniela Willy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Eike Bormann
- Institute of Biostatistics and Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Janina Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Walter Klockenbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf Schmitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Johnson RL, Kim DR, Wang EY, Ewing G, Hantsoo L, Kornfield SL, Bale TL, Epperson CN. Maternal adverse childhood experiences impact fetal adrenal volume in a sex-specific manner. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:7. [PMID: 36803442 PMCID: PMC9936707 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00492-0] [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: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms by which parental early life stress can be transmitted to the next generation, in some cases in a sex-specific manner, are unclear. Maternal preconception stress may increase susceptibility to suboptimal health outcomes via in utero programming of the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. METHODS We recruited healthy pregnant women (N = 147), dichotomized into low (0 or 1) and high (2+) adverse childhood experience (ACE) groups based on the ACE Questionnaire, to test the hypothesis that maternal ACE history influences fetal adrenal development in a sex-specific manner. At a mean (standard deviation) of 21.5 (1.4) and 29.5 (1.4) weeks gestation, participants underwent three-dimensional ultrasounds to measure fetal adrenal volume, adjusting for fetal body weight (waFAV). RESULTS At ultrasound 1, waFAV was smaller in high versus low ACE males (b = - 0.17; z = - 3.75; p < .001), but females did not differ significantly by maternal ACE group (b = 0.09; z = 1.72; p = .086). Compared to low ACE males, waFAV was smaller for low (b = - 0.20; z = - 4.10; p < .001) and high ACE females (b = - 0.11; z = 2.16; p = .031); however, high ACE males did not differ from low (b = 0.03; z = .57; p = .570) or high ACE females (b = - 0.06; z = - 1.29; p = .196). At ultrasound 2, waFAV did not differ significantly between any maternal ACE/offspring sex subgroups (ps ≥ .055). Perceived stress did not differ between maternal ACE groups at baseline, ultrasound 1, or ultrasound 2 (ps ≥ .148). CONCLUSIONS We observed a significant impact of high maternal ACE history on waFAV, a proxy for fetal adrenal development, but only in males. Our observation that the waFAV in males of mothers with a high ACE history did not differ from the waFAV of females extends preclinical research demonstrating a dysmasculinizing effect of gestational stress on a range of offspring outcomes. Future studies investigating intergenerational transmission of stress should consider the influence of maternal preconception stress on offspring outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korrina A. Duffy
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA ,grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Colorado – Anschutz Medical Campus, 1890 N. Revere Court, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - Mary D. Sammel
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA ,grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado School of Public Health – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Rachel L. Johnson
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado School of Public Health – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Deborah R. Kim
- grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Eileen Y. Wang
- grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Grace Ewing
- grid.266826.e0000 0000 9216 5478University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, Biddeford, ME USA
| | - Liisa Hantsoo
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Sara L. Kornfield
- grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Tracy L. Bale
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - C. Neill Epperson
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA ,grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
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Özdemir BG, Özdemir H, Atalay CR. The importance of fetal adrenal gland volume measurement in successful labor induction with oxytocin. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:2514-2521. [PMID: 35817550 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM We aimed to show the predictive value of fetal adrenal gland volume (FAGV) measurement in the success of labor induction with oxytocin. METHODS This is a prospective cohort study that included a total of 103 term nulliparous. Immediately after deciding to induce labor with oxytocin, the fetal right and left adrenal gland measurements were obtained. RESULTS Induction success was achieved in 89 of 103 (86.4%) pregnant women. In comparison of the FAGV values of failed induction labor group, the total volumes of right and left fetal adrenal glands and the fetal zone volumes (FZV) were found to be statistically significantly higher in the successful labor induction group (p < 0.001). In predicting induction success, the cut-off value of fetal adrenal gland volume (cFAGV) was set as >230.2 mm3 /kg and area under curve (AUC) value of 0.872 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.736-1.000) for right total adrenal gland (p < 0.001). The cut-off value of cFAGV was set as >236.7 mm3 /kg and AUC value of 0.891(95%CI, 0.768-1.000) (p < 0.001) for left total adrenal gland. The cut-off value of cFAGV was set as >12.6 mm3 /kg and AUC value of 0.952 (95%CI, 0.905-0.999) for right FZV(p < 0.001). The cut-off value of cFAGV was set as >7.8 mm3 /kg and AUC value of 0.884 (95%CI, 0.752-1.000) for left FZV (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Two-dimension ultrasonographic measurement is an easy-to-access and noninvasive method that can be integrated into the algorithms to predict the success of induction based on FAGV measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belma G Özdemir
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Halis Özdemir
- Malatya Training and Research Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatology Clinic, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Cemal R Atalay
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara City Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Ankara, Turkey
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Hall M, Hutter J, Suff N, Zampieri CA, Tribe RM, Shennan A, Rutherford M, Story L. Antenatal diagnosis of chorioamnionitis: A review of the potential role of fetal and placental imaging. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:1049-1058. [PMID: 35670265 PMCID: PMC9543023 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Chorioamnionitis is present in up to 70% of spontaneous preterm births. It is defined as an acute inflammation of the chorion, with or without involvement of the amnion, and is evidence of a maternal immunological response to infection. A fetal inflammatory response can coexist and is diagnosed on placental histopathology postnatally. Fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) is associated with poorer fetal and neonatal outcomes. The only antenatal diagnostic test is amniocentesis which carries risks of miscarriage or preterm birth. Imaging of the fetal immune system, in particular the thymus and the spleen, and the placenta may give valuable information antenatally regarding the diagnosis of fetal inflammatory response. While ultrasound is largely limited to structural information, MRI can complement this with functional information that may provide insight into the metabolic activities of the fetal immune system and placenta. This review discusses fetal and placental imaging in pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis and their potential future use in achieving non-invasive antenatal diagnosis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Hall
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jana Hutter
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Natalie Suff
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Carla Avena Zampieri
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Shennan
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mary Rutherford
- Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa Story
- Department of Women and Children's Health, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for the Developing Brain, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
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Blue NR, Hoffman M, Allshouse AA, Grobman WA, Simhan HN, Turan OM, Parry S, Chung JH, Reddy U, Haas DM, Myers S, Mercer B, Saade GR, Silver RM. Antenatal Fetal Adrenal Measurements at 22 to 30 Weeks' Gestation, Fetal Growth Restriction, and Perinatal Morbidity. Am J Perinatol 2021; 38:676-682. [PMID: 31756754 PMCID: PMC7708295 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3400308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to test the association of fetal adrenal size with perinatal morbidity among fetuses with fetal growth restriction (FGR; estimated fetal weight [EFW] < 10th percentile). STUDY DESIGN This was a secondary analysis of the Nulliparous Pregnancy Outcomes Study: Monitoring Mothers-to-be (nuMoM2b) adrenal study, which measured fetal adrenal gland size at 22 to 30 weeks' gestation. We analyzed the transverse adrenal area (TAA) and fetal zone area (absolute measurements and corrected for fetal size) and the ratio of the fetal zone area to the total transverse area using a composite perinatal outcome of stillbirth, neonatal intensive care unit admission, respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, sepsis, mechanical ventilation, seizure, or death. Among fetuses with FGR, adrenal measurements were compared between those that did and did not experience the composite perinatal outcome. RESULTS There were 1,709 eligible neonates. Seven percent (n = 120) were diagnosed with FGR at the time of adrenal measurement, and 14.7% (n = 251) experienced perinatal morbidity. EFW-corrected and absolute adrenal measurements were similar among fetuses with and without FGR as well as among those who did and did not experience morbidity. The area under the curve for corrected TAA was 0.52 (95% confidence interval 0.38-0.67). CONCLUSION In our cohort, adrenal size was not associated with risk of morbidity among fetuses with FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan R Blue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Matthew Hoffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Care Health System, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Amanda A Allshouse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - William A Grobman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hyagriv N Simhan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ozhan M Turan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Samuel Parry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Judith H Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, Orange, California
| | - Uma Reddy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David M Haas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Stephen Myers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Brian Mercer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - George R Saade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Robert M Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Should the interval between doses of antenatal corticosteroids be shortened in certain cases? Factors predicting preterm delivery < 48 h from presentation. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 304:913-918. [PMID: 33782713 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06032-8] [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: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment with antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) to women at risk for preterm birth (PTB) is associated with a reduction in adverse neonatal outcomes. Obstetricians occasionally shorten the interval between the doses of steroids if delivery is predicted to occur before ACS are fully administered. In this study, we aimed to investigate predicting factors to identify patients that will deliver prematurely, less than 48 h from presentation. METHODS The computerized medical files of all PTBs (< 34 weeks) were reviewed. Maternal demographics, pregnancy and delivery characteristics were compared between PTB that occurred < 48 h vs. > 48 h from triage presentation. RESULTS In total, 494 PTB cases were included: 302 women in the study group (PTB < 48 h) and 192 women in the control group (PTB > 48 h). No significant differences were found in demographic characteristics between the groups. At presentation, the study group had higher rates of uterine contractions (p < 0.001) and cervical length < 25 mm (p < 0.001) as well as a higher rate of non-reassuring fetal (NRFHR) monitor (p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group presented with higher rates of preeclampsia (p = 0.003) and preterm premature rupture of membranes (p = 0.038). In multivariable analysis, all of the above factors remained significant after controlling for background confounders. CONCLUSIONS Various factors at presentation can predict delivery < 48 h. These factors can be used to predict patients to whom the ACS interval should be shortened. Future prospective studies should investigate the effect of this shortening on neonatal outcomes.
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Goletzke J, Pagenkemper M, Wiessner C, Rüber F, Arck P, Hecher K, Diemert A. Longitudinal adrenal gland measurements and growth trajectories as risk markers for late preterm delivery. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:570. [PMID: 32993527 PMCID: PMC7526396 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03255-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fetal adrenal gland receives rising awareness as a predictor of spontaneous preterm birth. We hereby provide longitudinal growth assessments of the fetal adrenal gland in a low risk population with an additional focus on trajectories in fetuses born preterm. METHODS Fetal adrenal gland was assessed via transabdominal ultrasound at gestational weeks (gw) 24-26, 28-30, and 34-36 in a low-risk pregnancy cohort. Longitudinal trajectories of the total gland and the mark (so called fetal zone) as well as ratio of fetal zone width/ total widths (w/W) were analyzed using repeated ANOVA analyses. To compare trajectories of the ratio w/W for preterm and term fetuses respectively, as well as women with and without clinical signs of preterm labor, the propensity score method was applied. RESULTS Fetal zone width increased over the course of pregnancy (p < 0.0001), while the ratio w/W decreased (p < 0.0001) (n = 327). Comparing the trajectories of the ratio w/W in fetuses born preterm (n = 11) with propensity-score matched term born fetuses (n = 22), a decrease between gw 24-26 and 28-30 was observed in both groups, which continued to decrease for the term born fetuses. However, in preterm born fetuses, the ratio increased above the term born values at gw 34-36. CONCLUSION Our study provides for the first time longitudinal growth data on the fetal adrenal gland and supports the hypothesis that fetal zone enlargement is associated with preterm birth which could play an important role in risk-prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Goletzke
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mirja Pagenkemper
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Wiessner
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Rüber
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra Arck
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anke Diemert
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical-Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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Normal size of the fetal adrenal gland on prenatal magnetic resonance imaging. Pediatr Radiol 2020; 50:840-847. [PMID: 32060593 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04629-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The adrenal gland plays a vital role in fetal growth. Many disease states such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hemorrhage and tumors can lead to morphological changes in the gland. Ultrasound measurements of normal adrenal sizes in the fetus reported in the literature have shown a trend of increasing size with gestational age. There is no literature available on standard fetal adrenal sizes or detailed appearance by fetal MRI. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to provide MR data on the size and signal characteristics of the fetal adrenal gland throughout the second and third trimesters. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this retrospective review, we selected 185 prenatal MRIs obtained from Jan. 1, 2014, to May 31, 2017, with normal abdominal findings for inclusion. The adrenal glands were identified in coronal, sagittal or axial T2-W planes and coronal T1-W plane when available. We measured the length and thickness of the medial and lateral limbs of the right and left adrenal glands and recorded signal intensity on T1-W and T2-W sequences, gender and gestational age in each case. RESULTS The gestational age (GA) ranged 18-37 weeks. Visibility of the adrenal glands on T2-W images was high (90.3-97.2%) up to 30 weeks of GA but declined afterward (47.5-62.2% at 31-37 weeks). Visibility on T1-W images increased with GA, ranging from 21.4% visibility at 18-22 weeks and increasing to 40% at 35-37 weeks. Mean lengths of the adrenal gland limbs steadily increased from 8.2 mm at 18-22 weeks to 11.0 mm at 35-37 weeks. In the second trimester, adrenal glands were low in signal intensity on T2-W images and were surrounded by hyperintense perirenal fatty tissue. In the third trimester, the glands became less distinct, with increasing signal and obliteration of perirenal tissue. The glands were moderately hyperintense on T1-W images throughout pregnancy, with increasing visibility as pregnancy progressed. CONCLUSION Normal sizes and signal intensities for adrenal glands are reported. Visibility of adrenal glands on T2-W images was 90.3-97.2% up to 30 weeks but declined thereafter. Visibility on T1-W images increased in the third trimester. Adrenal gland sizes increased with gestational age.
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Gimovsky AC, Pham A, Shlossman P, Hoffman M. Fetal adrenal gland size and the ability to predict spontaneous term labor. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 240:341-346. [PMID: 31377462 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate whether ultrasound measured fetal adrenal gland size can be a predictor of spontaneous term labor. STUDY DESIGN This study was a diagnostic test accuracy study using a prospective cohort design evaluating the ability of 2-dimensional ultrasound measurement of fetal adrenal gland total length, total width, fetal zone length and fetal zone width in women in the third trimester to predict the primary outcome of spontaneous term labor. Secondary outcomes were vaginal delivery, length of labor, and maternal and neonatal morbidities. RESULTS Of 43 patients recruited, 3 were excluded. 11 (25.6%) presented in spontaneous labor and 29 (67.4%) underwent induction of labor. Patient demographics were similar for all included except for admission cervical exam and oxytocin use. A receiver operative curve was created to assess test predictability. Weighted width of fetal adrenal gland was the best predictor of spontaneous labor amongst variables measured with an area under the curve of 0.674, p = 0.93. w/W ≥ 0.41 had a sensitivity of 91.0%, specificity of 44.8%, positive predictive value of 38.5% and a negative predictive value of 92.3%. Maternal and neonatal morbidities were not different between the spontaneous labor group and the induction of labor group. CONCLUSION Ultrasound measured fetal w/W was moderately predictive of spontaneous labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis C Gimovsky
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amelie Pham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Philip Shlossman
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Matthew Hoffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, DE, USA
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Bhat CS, Amin SV, Adiga P, Pandey D. Fetal Adrenal Gland Volume a Novel Predictor of Onset of Labor. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2018; 69:252-257. [PMID: 31178641 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-018-1187-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a definite need to find a highly sensitive and specific, noninvasive, and cost-effective marker for prediction of preterm labor. We hypothesize that a measurement of adrenal gland volume can predict a preterm as well as a term labor. Materials and Methods Two hundred and sixty-eight pregnant women were enrolled in the study at 28-34 weeks' antenatal visit. Final analysis was done in 204. All of them were subjected to 2D ultrasonographic measurement of the corrected fetal adrenal gland volume (cFAGV) and fetal adrenal zone parameters including the width ratio and depth ratio. The cohort was followed up to term, and a reassessment of cFAGV and fetal adrenal zone parameters was repeated between 37 and 39 weeks. Women who presented with features of preterm labor had a scan at the time of presentation to record cFAGV and fetal adrenal zone parameters. Results Women, who developed features of preterm labor eventually, had a significantly high cFAGV (404.70 mm3/kg body weight) during the first scan compared to those who reached term asymptomatically (241.35 mm3/kg body weight). A cutoff value of 271.16 mm3/kg body weight showed 90% sensitivity and 81.9% specificity. Fetal adrenal gland width ratio had the best efficacy (sensitivity 96.67%, specificity 86.2%) followed by cFAGV (sensitivity 96.67%, specificity 83%) for predicting preterm delivery. Conclusion 2D ultrasound measurement of fetal adrenal gland parameters can be used as a marker for prediction of preterm delivery. cFAGV at term can also be used to predict the possibility of spontaneous onset of labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandana S Bhat
- 1Department of OBG, KMC Manipal, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka India.,Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Sapna Vinit Amin
- 1Department of OBG, KMC Manipal, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka India
| | - Prashanth Adiga
- 1Department of OBG, KMC Manipal, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka India
| | - Deeksha Pandey
- 1Department of OBG, KMC Manipal, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka India
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Heese S, Hammer K, Möllers M, Köster HA, Falkenberg MK, Eveslage M, Braun J, Oelmeier de Murcia K, Klockenbusch W, Schmitz R. Adrenal gland size in growth restricted fetuses. J Perinat Med 2018. [PMID: 29543592 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2017-0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective To compare the adrenal gland size of fetal growth restricted (FGR) and normal control fetuses. Study design In this prospective study the adrenal gland size of 63 FGR fetuses and 343 normal controls was measured between 20 and 41 weeks of gestation. The total width and the medulla width were measured in a new standardized transversal plane. The cortex width and a calculated ratio of the total and medulla width (adrenal gland ratio) were compared between both groups. Results The mean cortex width and the adrenal gland ratio in FGR fetuses were higher in comparison to the controls (P<0.001; P=0.036, respectively). The cortex width correlated positively with the gestational age (control group: P<0.001; FGR group: P=0.089) whilst the adrenal gland ratio showed no association with the gestational age (control group: P=0.153; FGR group: P=0.314). Conclusion The adrenal gland cortex width and the adrenal gland ratio were increased in FGR fetuses compared to normal fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Heese
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hammer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mareike Möllers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Helen A Köster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Maria K Falkenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Maria Eveslage
- Institute of Biostatistics and Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Janina Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Walter Klockenbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf Schmitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Agarwal S, Agarwal A, Joon P, Saraswat S, Chandak S. Fetal adrenal gland biometry and cervical elastography as predictors of preterm birth: A comparative study. ULTRASOUND : JOURNAL OF THE BRITISH MEDICAL ULTRASOUND SOCIETY 2018; 26:54-62. [PMID: 29456583 DOI: 10.1177/1742271x17748515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Preterm birth is a major health problem in developing and developed countries leading to rising health care costs and long-term neurodevelopmental disability. The study aims to evaluate the role of new quantitative markers, like the elastography of cervix (shear wave speed estimation), fetal adrenal zone enlargement, and corrected fetal adrenal gland volume; in preterm birth prediction and analyze their relative importance. Thus, these markers may be beneficial in early preterm birth detection and prevent the related morbidities. Methods Thirty pregnant females (from 28 to 37 weeks of gestational age), showing clinical signs and delivery outcome of preterm birth were included in the study with an equal number of not-in-labor antenatal females at ≥37 weeks as controls. These patients were categorized as preterm and term groups. Both the groups were subjected to trans-abdominal ultrasonography where cervical length, cervical shear wave speed (dynamic elastography) and fetal adrenal gland parameters were measured. Results Shear wave speed estimation of the antenatal cervix showed the highest sensitivity and specificity (96.7% and 87% respectively) in the prediction of preterm birth and also showed a strong correlation with fetal adrenal gland enlargement. Fetal adrenal zone enlargement was also shown to be a reliable marker of preterm birth, however, with reduced sensitivity and specificity than shear wave speed. Conclusion The elastographic advancement and fetal adrenal biometry derived quantitative markers can be used as an objective and standard criterion for accurate prediction of preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhra Agarwal
- 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India
| | - Arjit Agarwal
- 2Department of Radiodiagnosis, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India
| | - Pawan Joon
- 2Department of Radiodiagnosis, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India
| | - Shalini Saraswat
- 2Department of Radiodiagnosis, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India
| | - Shruti Chandak
- 2Department of Radiodiagnosis, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India
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