Efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids in preterm twins: the EPIPAGE-2 cohort study

Association of antenatal corticosteroids with mortality and morbidities in very preterm infants born to women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a multicenter prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) is the most common cause of indicated preterm delivery, but the impact of prenatal steroid exposure on the outcomes of preterm infants born to HDP mothers, who may be at risk for intrauterine hypoxia-ischemia, remains uncertain. The study objective is to evaluate the mortality and morbidities in HDP for very preterm infants (VPIs) exposed to different course of ANS.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study comprising infants with < 32 weeks gestation born to women with HDP only from 1 Jan. 2019 to 31 Dec. 2021 within 40 participating neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Sino-northern network. ANS courses included completed, partial, repeated, and no ANS. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed on administration of ANS and short-term outcomes before discharge.

RESULTS

Among 1917 VPIs born to women with HDP only, 987(51.4%) received a complete course of ANS within 48 h to 7 days before birth, 560(29.2%) received partial ANS within 24 h before delivery, 100(5.2%) received repeat ANS and 270 (14.1%) did not receive any ANS. Compared to infants who received complete ANS, infants unexposed to ANS was associated with higher odds of death (AOR 1.85; 95%CI 1.10, 3.14), Severe Neurological Injury (SNI) or death (AOR 1.68; 95%CI 1.29,3.80) and NEC or death (AOR 1.78; 95%CI 1.55, 2.89), the repeated ANS group exhibits a significant negative correlation with the duration of oxygen therapy days (correlation coefficient - 18.3; 95%CI-39.2, -2.1). However, there were no significant differences observed between the full course and partial course groups in terms of outcomes. We can draw similar conclusions in the non-SGA group, while the differences are not significant in the SGA group. From KM curve, it showed that the repeated group had the highest survival rate, but the statistical analysis did not indicate a significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Even partial courses of ANS administered within 24 h before delivery proved to be protective against death and other morbidities. The differences mentioned above are more pronounced in the non-SGA group. Repeat courses demonstrate a trend toward protection, but this still needs to be confirmed by larger samples.

European guidelines on perinatal care: corticosteroids for women at risk of preterm birth

of recommendationsCorticosteroids should be administered to women at a gestational age between 24⁺⁰ and 33⁺⁶weeks, when preterm birth is anticipated in the next seven days, as these have been consistently shown to reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity. (Strong-quality evidence; strong recommendation). In selected cases, extension of this period up to 34⁺⁶weeks may be considered (Expert opinion). Optimal benefits are found in infants delivered within 7 days of corticosteroid administration. Even a single-dose administration should be given to women with imminent preterm birth, as this is likely to improve neurodevelopmental outcome (Moderate-quality evidence; conditional recommendation).Either betamethasone (12 mg administered intramuscularly twice, 24-hours apart) or dexamethasone (6 mg administered intramuscularly in four doses, 12-hours apart, or 12 mg administered intramuscularly twice, 24-hours apart), may be used (Moderate-quality evidence; Strong recommendation). Administration of two "all" doses is named a "course of corticosteroids".Administration between 22⁺⁰ and 23⁺⁶weeks should be considered when preterm birth is anticipated in the next seven days and active newborn life-support is indicated, taking into account parental wishes. Clear survival benefit has been observed in these cases, but the impact on short-term neurological and respiratory function, as well as long-term neurodevelopmental outcome is still unclear (Low/moderate-quality evidence; Weak recommendation).Administration between 34 + 0 and 34 + 6 weeks should only be offered to a few selected cases (Expert opinion). Administration between 35⁺⁰ and 36⁺⁶weeks should be restricted to prospective randomized trials. Current evidence suggests that although corticosteroids reduce the incidence of transient tachypnea of the newborn, they do not affect the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome, and they increase neonatal hypoglycemia. Long-term safety data are lacking (Moderate quality evidence; Conditional recommendation).Administration in pregnancies beyond 37⁺⁰weeks is not indicated, even for scheduled cesarean delivery, as current evidence does not suggest benefit and the long-term effects remain unknown (Low-quality evidence; Conditional recommendation).Administration should be given in twin pregnancies, with the same indication and doses as for singletons. However, existing evidence suggests that it should be reserved for pregnancies at high-risk of delivering within a 7-day interval (Low-quality evidence; Conditional recommendation). Maternal diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication to the use of antenatal corticosteroids (Moderate quality evidence; Strong recommendation).A single repeat course of corticosteroids can be considered in pregnancies at less than 34⁺⁰weeks gestation, if the previous course was completed more than seven days earlier, and there is a renewed risk of imminent delivery (Low-quality evidence; Conditional recommendation).

FIGO good practice recommendations for preterm labor and preterm prelabor rupture of membranes: Prep-for-Labor triage to minimize risks and maximize favorable outcomes

Preterm labor occurs in around 10% of pregnancies worldwide. Once diagnosed, significant efforts must be made to reduce the likelihood of morbidity and mortality associated with preterm birth. In high-resource settings, access to hospitals with a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is readily available, whereas access to NICU care is limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and many rural settings. Use of FIGO's Prep-for-Labor triage method rapidly identifies low- and high-risk patients with preterm labor to enable clinicians to decide whether the patient can be managed on site or if transfer to a level II-IV facility is needed. The management steps described in this paper aim to minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with preterm labor and in the setting of preterm labor with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). The methods for accurate diagnosis of PPROM and chorioamnionitis are described. When the risk of preterm birth is high, antenatal corticosteroids should be administered for lung maturation combined with limited tocolysis for 48 hours to permit the corticosteroid course to be completed. Magnesium sulfate is also administered for fetal neuroprotection. Implementation of FIGO's Prep-for-Labor triage method in an LMIC setting will help improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.

N-Terminal Pro-B Type Natriuretic Peptide as a Predictive Biomarker of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia or Death Due to Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence suggests the clinical utility of N terminal pro B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in multiple cardiac and pulmonary abnormalities both in adult and pediatric populations. To date, however, there is no consensus regarding its efficacy for the prediction and severity of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature neonates. The objective of the present meta-analysis was to determine differences in NT-proBNP among neonates that develop BPD or die from BPD and to evaluate if there is relative information on the diagnostic accuracy of the method.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search according to the PRISMA guidelines and looked into Medline (1966-2023), Scopus (2004-2023), Clinicaltrials.gov (2008-2023), EMBASE (1980-2023), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL (1999-2022) and Google Scholar (2004-2023) together with the reference lists from included studies. The potential risk of bias encountered in our study was evaluated using the QUADAS -2 tool. Finally, a total of 9 studies met the eligibility criteria, comprising 1319 newborns, from which 397 developed BPD and 922 were unaffected controls.

RESULTS

The results retrieved from our meta-analysis showed that newborns suffering from BPD had notably elevated NT-proBNP levels after birth when compared with healthy neonates (SMD 2.57, 95% CI 0.41, 4.72). The summary effect of the AUC meta-analysis showed that NT-proBNP was very accurate in detecting neonates at risk of developing severe BPD or dying from the disease (AUC -0.16, 95% CI -0.23, -0.08). No studies reported data relevant to the sensitivity and/or specificity of the method in diagnosing BPD.

CONCLUSION

Serum NT-proBNP levels represent a potential future biomarker with great diagnostic validity for the prediction of BPD complicating preterm deliveries. The limited amount of studies included and the significant variations in cutoff values and timing of measurement still restrict the application of NT-proBNP as an established clinical biomarker for BPD. The design of larger prospective studies will provide a more representative number of participants and will address the discrepancies in existing literature.

Effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration-to-birth interval on maternal and newborn outcomes: a systematic review

Background

Antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) are highly effective at improving outcomes for preterm newborns. Evidence suggests the benefits of ACS may vary with the time interval between administration-to-birth. However, the optimal ACS administration-to-birth interval is not yet known. In this systematic review, we synthesised available evidence on the relationship between ACS administration-to-birth interval and maternal and newborn outcomes.

Methods

This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021253379). We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Global Index Medicus on 11 Nov 2022 with no date or language restrictions. Randomised and non-randomised studies of pregnant women receiving ACS for preterm birth where maternal and newborn outcomes were reported for different administration-to-birth intervals were eligible. Eligibility screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed by two authors independently. Fetal and neonatal outcomes included perinatal and neonatal mortality, preterm birth-related morbidity outcomes and mean birthweight. Maternal outcomes included chorioamnionitis, maternal mortality, endometritis, and maternal intensive care unit admission.

Findings

Ten trials (4592 women; 5018 neonates), 45 cohort studies (at least 22,992 women; 30,974 neonates) and two case-control studies (355 women; 360 neonates) met the eligibility criteria. Across studies, 37 different time interval combinations were identified. There was considerable heterogeneity in included administration-to-birth intervals and populations. The odds of neonatal mortality, respiratory distress syndrome and intraventricular haemorrhage were associated with the ACS administration-to-birth interval. However, the interval associated with the greatest improvements in newborn outcomes was not consistent across studies. No reliable data were available for maternal outcomes, though odds of chorioamnionitis might be associated with longer intervals.

Intepretation

An optimal ACS administration-to-birth interval likely exists, however variations in study design limit identification of this interval from available evidence. Future research should consider advanced analysis techniques such as individual patient data meta-analysis to identify which ACS administration-to-birth intervals are most beneficial, and how these benefits can be optimised for women and newborns.

Funding

This study was conducted with funding support from the UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH), a co-sponsored programme executed by the World Health Organization.

The role of antenatal corticosteroids in twin pregnancy

Twin pregnancy was associated with significantly higher rates of adverse neonatal and perinatal outcomes. One of the underlying causes is that twins are prone to preterm birth. Antenatal corticosteroids are widely used for reducing the incidence of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome initially and other neonatal mortality and morbidities subsequently. As it is widely used as a prophylactic treatment for potential premature births, there remain controversies of issues relating to twin gestations, including window for opportunity, timing of use, repeat course, optimal administration-to-delivery intervals, dosage, and type of corticosteroid. Thus, we present a thorough review of antenatal corticosteroids usage in twin gestation, emphasizing the aforementioned issues and attempting to offer direction for future investigation and clinical practice.

Survival Outcomes of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients Following Dose-dense Versus 3-Weekly Platinum-Paclitaxel Chemotherapy: A Meta-Analysis

AIMS

Dose-dense chemotherapy has proven its value in several cancer fields. The purpose of the present systematic review is to evaluate the impact of dose-dense chemotherapy on survival outcomes of epithelial ovarian cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL, Google Scholar and Clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched for relevant articles. Effect sizes were calculated in Rstudio using the meta and metafor functions. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to evaluate the possibility of small study effects and P-hacking. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2) and Risk of Bias in non-Randomized Trials (RoBINS) tools.

RESULTS

Overall, 12 studies were included in the present systematic review, involving 4979 epithelial ovarian cancer patients. The risk of recurrence was substantially improved in patients receiving dose-dense chemotherapy (hazard ratio 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.70, 0.96); however, the result of the meta-analysis may be attributed to the effect size of smaller studies as following adjustment for small study effects the outcome becomes non-significant (hazard ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.81, 1.02, P = 0.123). Overall survival rates were not improved by dose-dense chemotherapy (hazard ratio 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.60, 1.04). Thirty-five types of adverse effect were identified following retrieval of data from the original studies. Dose-dense chemotherapy did not increase significantly the rates of severe adverse effects, although thrombosis, severe diarrhoea and severe nausea were more prevalent in this group of patients.

CONCLUSION

Dose-dense chemotherapy is associated with comparable side-effects to those of standard chemotherapy; however, data related to survival outcomes are not positive; hence, its use outside the setting of clinical trials should be discouraged.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on neonatal outcomes in twin and singleton pregnancies: a Korean national cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether effects of antenatal corticosteroids on neonatal outcomes in preterm infants with very low birth weight were different by plurality.

DESIGN

Nationwide prospective cohort study.

PATIENTS

Twins and singletons with very low birth weight (<1500 g) who were born between 23+0 and 33+6 weeks of gestation and registered in the Korean Neonatal Network from January 2014 to December 2019.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Morbidity and mortality before discharge from neonatal intensive care unit.

RESULTS

Among a total of 9531 preterm infants with very low birth weight, there were 2364 (24.8%) twins and 7167 (75.2%) singletons. While 83.9% of singletons were exposed to at least one dose of antenatal corticosteroids, so were 87.9% of twins.Interaction analysis demonstrated that there was no significant difference in the effect of antenatal corticosteroids on morbidities or mortality between twins and singletons in either gestational age group (23-28 weeks or 29-33 weeks).Antenatal corticosteroids significantly decreased the risk of surfactant use (adjusted relative risk (aRR): 0.972 (95% CI: 0.961 to 0.984)), high-grade intraventricular haemorrhage (aRR: 0.621 (95% CI: 0.487 to 0.794)), periventricular leucomalacia (aRR: 0.728 (95% CI: 0.556 to 0.954)) and mortality (aRR: 0.758 (95% CI: 0.679 to 0.846)) in the gestational age group of 23-28 weeks. In the gestational age group of 29-33 weeks, antenatal corticosteroids significantly decreased the risk of surfactant use (aRR: 0.914 (95% CI: 0.862 to 0.970)) and mortality (aRR: 0.409 (95% CI: 0.269 to 0.624)) but increased the risk of sepsis (aRR: 1.416 (95% CI: 1.018 to 1.969)).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that effect of antenatal corticosteroids on neonatal outcomes of preterm infants with very low birth weight does not differ significantly by plurality (twin or singleton pregnancy).

Efficacy and safety of oral and sublingual versus vaginal misoprostol for induction of labour: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Misoprostol is a synthetic PGE1 analogue that is used for induction of labour. Current guidelines support the use of doses that do not exceed 25 mcg in order to limit maternal and neonatal adverse outcomes. The present meta-analysis investigates the efficacy and safety of oral compared to vaginally inserted misoprostol in terms of induction of labor and adverse peripartum outcomes.

Methods

We searched Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases from inception till April 2022. Randomized controlled trials that assessed the efficacy of oral misoprostol (per os or sublingual) compared to vaginally inserted misoprostol. Effect sizes were calculated in R. Sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the possibility of small study effects, p-hacking. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis according to the dose of misoprostol was also investigated. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed by two independent reviewers using the risk of bias 2 tool. Quality of evidence for primary outcomes was evaluated under the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework, ranging from very low to high.

Results

Overall, 57 studies were included that involved 10,975 parturient. Their risk of bias ranged between low-moderate. There were no differences among the routes of intake in terms of successful vaginal delivery within 24 h (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.80) and cesarean section rates (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.82, 1.04). Sublingual misoprostol was superior compared to vaginal misoprostol in reducing the interval from induction to delivery (MD – 1.11 h, 95% CI – 2.06, – 0.17). On the other hand, per os misoprostol was inferior compared to vaginal misoprostol in terms of this outcome (MD 3.45 h, 95% CI 1.85, 5.06). Maternal and neonatal morbidity was not affected by the route or dose of misoprostol.

Conclusion

The findings of our study suggest that oral misoprostol intake is equally safe to vaginal misoprostol in terms of inducing labor at term. Sublingual intake seems to outperform the per os and vaginal routes without increasing the accompanying morbidity. Increasing the dose of misoprostol does not seem to increase its efficacy.

Clinical trial registration

Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/V9JHF).

Spontaneous versus manual placental delivery during cesarean delivery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Standardized techniques have been established for cesarean delivery to reduce cesarean delivery complication rates. Current recommendations suggest against manual removal of the placenta. The purpose of the present meta-analysis is to evaluate published data and provide a summary of the evidence.

METHODS

For the purposes of this systematic review, we searched Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases from inception till June 2021 for relevant randomized controlled trials. Effect sizes were calculated in R.

RESULTS

Overall, 19 studies were included that involved 5797 parturient. We did not detect significant differences in the mean intraoperative blood loss among the two techniques (MD = 149.18 ml, 95% CI = -32.55, 330.92). Similarly, intraoperative duration was comparable among the two groups (MD = -0.89 min, 95% CI = -2.34, 0.57). The risk of intraoperative hemorrhage was comparable among the two groups (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 0.48, 6.36), although the provided result is based on underpowered sample size. Consequently, the need of transfusion was not increased (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.71, 2.44). Neither postpartum endometritis (OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 0.94, 2.40) nor infectious morbidity (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 0.94, 3.52) increased with manual placental extraction.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study suggest that cephalad-caudad blunt expansion of the uterine incision may be safe; however, more data are needed to evaluate its impact on post-partum infectious morbidity as well as its safety in cases at increased risk of perioperative bleeding.

Is There a Survival Benefit of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Stage IC1 Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients? A Meta-Analysis

The purpose of the present systematic review is to clarify whether adjuvant chemotherapy improves survival rates in women with stage IC1 ovarian cancer. We searched Medline, Scopus, Clinicaltrials.gov, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL and Google Scholar. We considered comparative observational studies and randomized trials that investigated survival outcomes (progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS)) among women with intraoperative rupture of early-stage epithelial ovarian cancer who received adjuvant chemotherapy and those that did not. Eleven studies, which recruited 7556 patients, were included. The risk of bias was defined as moderate after assessment with the Risk of Bias in non-Randomized Trials tool. Meta-analysis was performed with RStudio. Seven studies investigated the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy on recurrence-free survival of patients experiencing intraoperative cyst rupture for otherwise stage I ovarian cancer. The outcome was not affected by the use of adjuvant chemotherapy as the effect estimate was not significant (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.74, 2.04). The analysis of data from 5 studies similarly revealed that overall survival rates were comparable among the two groups (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.54, 1.05). This meta-analysis did not detect any benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy for stage IC ovarian cancer patients with cyst rupture. However, conclusions from this investigation are limited by a study population which included multiple histologic subtypes, high and low grade tumors and incompletely staged patients.

Guideline No. 428: Management of Dichorionic Twin Pregnancies

OBJECTIVE

To review evidence-based recommendations for the management of dichorionic twin pregnancies.

TARGET POPULATION

Pregnant women with a dichorionic twin pregnancy.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

Implementation of the recommendations in this guideline may improve the management of twin pregnancies and reduce neonatal and maternal morbidity and mortality.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of PubMed and the Cochrane Library using appropriate controlled vocabulary (e.g., twin, preterm birth). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. There were no date limits, but results were limited to English- or French-language materials.

VALIDATION METHODS

The content and recommendations were drafted and agreed upon by the principal authors. The Board of the SOGC approved the final draft for publication. The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and weak recommendations).

INTENDED AUDIENCE

Obstetricians, family physicians, nurses, midwives, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, radiologists, and other health care providers who care for women with twin pregnancies.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

The use of antenatal corticosteroids for fetal maturation: clinical practice guideline by the WAPM-World Association of Perinatal Medicine and the PMF-Perinatal Medicine foundation

This practice guideline follows the mission of the World Association of Perinatal Medicine in collaboration with the Perinatal Medicine Foundation, bringing together groups and individuals throughout the world, with the goal of improving the use of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) for fetal maturation. In fact, this document provides further guidance for healthcare practitioners on the appropriate use of ACS with the aim to increase the timely administration and avoid unnecessary or excessive use. Therefore, it is not intended to establish a legal standard of care. This document is based on consensus among perinatal experts throughout the world and serves as a guideline for use in clinical practice.

Perineural invasion as a predictive biomarker of groin metastases and survival outcomes in vulvar cancer: a meta-analysis

We searched international databases to identify evidence that refer to the impact of perineural invasion on survival outcomes of patients with squamous cell vulvar cancer. We identified six retrospective cohort studies that investigated 887 patients. Of those, 234 (26.4%) had perineural invasion in the pathology analysis. Women with perineural invasion were more likely to have inguinal lymph node metastases (HR 3.45, 95% CI 1.12, 10.67). The impact of perineural invasion on progression-free survival rates was significant (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.21, 2.15) as well as its impact on overall survival rates (HR 2.73, 95% CI 1.94, 3.84).

Comparison of respiratory distress syndrome amongst preterm twins (28-34 Weeks) born within and after two weeks of completion of single antenatal corticosteroid course: A bidirectional cohort study

BACKGROUND

The literature on neonatal outcomes in preterm twins delivered before 34 weeks but within and after 14 days of a single initial steroid course is limited.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This bidirectional (226 prospective and 42 retrospectives) cohort study was performed at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India. We compared the respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal death amongst preterm twins from 28 to 34 weeks born < 14 days (Group A, n=268) and after 14 days (Group B, n=268) of completion of a single course of antenatal steroids. We used multivariable regression analysis (log-binomial model) to adjust for confounding variables. We generated a propensity-matched score with probit regression to analyse outcomes (respiratory distress and neonatal deaths).

RESULTS

The two groups had significant differences in the distribution of birthweight, gestation period and mode of delivery. On adjusted analysis, the period of gestation below 33 weeks and weight below 1.5 kg had the maximum influence on respiratory and other morbidities, and weight less than 1 kg on neonatal death. [adjusted relative risk (ARR) 26.06, (95%CI=2.37-285.5), p=0.008]. On propensity scoring after matching all these variables, we found an [ARR of 2.0 (95% CI: 1.03-3.88), P=0.017] for neonatal death after 14 days of steroid injection. The ARR for respiratory distress syndrome was 1.13 in those born after 14 days of steroids, though it did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

On propensity scoring, the steroid-delivery interval more than 14 days was associated with a significantly increased risk (ARR of 2) of neonatal death.

Association between antenatal corticosteroids use and perinatal mortality among preterm singletons and twins in Mwanza, Tanzania: an observational study

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) use and perinatal mortality in singletons and twins delivered before 35 weeks of gestation.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of data from an observational prospective chart review study that investigated if exposure to ACS was associated with lower rates of perinatal mortality in preterm infants.

SETTING

This study was conducted in four hospitals located in Mwanza region, Tanzania.

PARTICIPANTS

The study population included all preterm singletons and twins delivered at these hospitals between 24 weeks 0 days and 34 weeks 6 days of gestation from July 2019 to February 2020.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was perinatal mortality; the secondary outcome was respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

RESULTS

The study included 844 singletons and 210 twin infants. Three hundred and fourteen singletons (37.2%) and 52 twins (24.8%) were exposed to at least one dose of ACS. Adjusted multivariate analyses revealed that among singletons' exposure to ACS was significantly associated with a lower likelihood of perinatal mortality, adjusted relative risk (aRR) 0.30 (95% CI 0.22 to 0.40) and RDS, aRR 0.92 (95% CI 0.87 to 0.97). In twin infants, exposure to ACS was associated with a reduced risk of RDS only, aRR 0.87 (95% CI 0.78 to 0.98).

CONCLUSION

The use of ACS between 24 weeks 0 days and 34 weeks 6 days of gestation in both singletons and twins in low-resource settings is associated with positive infant outcomes. No adverse effects were noted. Further research that examines the benefits of ACS for twin infants is needed.

Dosage escalation of antenatal steroids in preterm twin pregnancies does not improve long-term outcome

OBJECTIVES

To analyze long-term effects of antenatal betamethasone (≤16 mg, =24 mg and >24 mg) in preterm twins on infant and childhood morbidity.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study among 198 preterm twins. Three follow up time points, including a total of 84 outcomes, were evaluated: first neonatal examination after birth and in the neonatal period up to 10 days after birth using data from the clinic charts; examination from the 21st to the 24th month of life and examination from the 60th to the 64th months, using data from copies of the children's examination booklets sent back by the parents. Dosage-dependent and sex-specific long-term effects of antenatal betamethasone treatment on neonatal, infant and early childhood development and morbidity up to 5.3 years of age were analyzed.

RESULTS

Dosage escalation of >24 mg was not associated with improved neonatal, infant or early child hood outcome, independent of twin pair structure. In contrast, higher doses >24 mg were significantly linked to increased rates of congenital infections (OR 5.867, 95% CI 1.895-18.167). Male sex as a factor was obvious for lower rates of apnea-bradycardia-syndrome in neonates, higher rates of no free steps after 15 months in infancy and highest rates of motor clumsiness in early childhood.

CONCLUSIONS

Betamethasone dosage escalation >24 mg in twins born between 23⁺⁵ and 33⁺⁶ weeks of gestation did not improve neonatal, infant or early childhood morbidity. In contrast, higher doses >24 mg total dose resulted in significantly higher rates of congenital infections and are not recommended. For males, 24 mg betamethasone appears to be the preferable dose.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Consult Series #58: Use of antenatal corticosteroids for individuals at risk for late preterm delivery: Replaces SMFM Statement #4, Implementation of the use of antenatal corticosteroids in the late preterm birth period in women at risk for preterm delivery, August 2016

The administration of antenatal corticosteroids has been widely adopted as the standard of care in the management of pregnancies at risk for preterm delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, with the primary goal of reducing neonatal morbidity. However, the long-term risks associated with antenatal corticosteroid use remain uncertain. The purpose of this Consult is to review the current literature on the benefits and risks of antenatal corticosteroid use in the late preterm period and to provide recommendations based on the available evidence. The recommendations by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine are as follows: (1) we recommend offering a single course of antenatal corticosteroids (2 doses of 12 mg of intramuscular betamethasone 24 hours apart) to patients who meet the inclusion criteria of the Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids trial, ie, those with a singleton pregnancy between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks of gestation who are at high risk of preterm birth within the next 7 days and before 37 weeks of gestation (GRADE 1A); (2) we suggest consideration for the use of antenatal corticosteroids in select populations not included in the original Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids trial, such as patients with multiple gestations reduced to a singleton gestation on or after 14 0/7 weeks of gestation, patients with fetal anomalies, or those who are expected to deliver in <12 hours (GRADE 2C); (3) we recommend against the use of antenatal corticosteroids for fetal lung maturity in pregnant patients with a low likelihood of delivery before 37 weeks of gestation (GRADE 1B); (4) we recommend against the use of late preterm corticosteroids in pregnant patients with pregestational diabetes mellitus, given the risk of worsening neonatal hypoglycemia (GRADE 1C); (5) we recommend that patients at risk for late preterm delivery be thoroughly counseled regarding the potential risks and benefits of antenatal corticosteroid administration and be advised that the long-term risks remain uncertain (GRADE 1C).

Association of antenatal corticosteroids with morbidity and mortality among preterm multiple gestations: meta-analysis of observational studies

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) on morbidity and mortality among preterm multiple pregnancies.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies investigating the outcomes among preterm multiple gestations following to ACS, from their inception to 1 November 2020. Two authors independently performed the study selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction. The primary outcomes were respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and mortality and secondary outcomes included intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), necrotising enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Pooled ORs were obtained using random effects models. Subgroup analyses were performed to explain heterogeneity by ACS completeness, administration-to-delivery intervals (≤7 days) and single or multicentre.

RESULTS

A total of 16 observational studies with 36 973 newborns were included in the meta-analysis. ACS treatment was associated with a reduction in RDS (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.54 to 0.82; I2=91.4%; p<0.001), mortality (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.50 to 0.81; I2=85.9%; p<0.001), IVH (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.54 to 0.83; I2=77.4%; p<0.001) and PVL (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.47 to 0.92; I2=75.5%; p<0.001). Subgroup analyses showed ACS completeness, administration-to-delivery interval and multicentre study affected these associations.

DISCUSSION

ACS may be beneficial for reducing the risks of RDS, mortality, IVH and PVL among preterm multiple gestations. The efficacy of ACS could be affected by ACS completeness and administration-to-delivery. More robust evidence on the efficacy of ACS treatment among multiple gestations is warranted.

Antenatal Corticosteroids and Magnesium Sulfate for Improved Preterm Neonatal Outcomes: A Review of Guidelines

Importance

In cases of anticipated preterm delivery, corticosteroids for fetal lung maturation and magnesium sulfate for fetal neuroprotection may improve neonatal outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to summarize and compare published guidelines from 4 leading medical societies on the administration of antenatal corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate.

Evidence Acquisition

A descriptive review of major national guidelines on corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate was conducted: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence on "Preterm labour and birth," World Health Organization on "WHO recommendations on interventions to improve preterm birth outcomes," American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on "Antenatal corticosteroid therapy for fetal maturation" and "Magnesium sulfate use in obstetrics," and Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada on "Antenatal corticosteroid therapy for improving neonatal outcomes" and "Magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection."

Results

A variation in the appropriate timing of administration exists, whereas repeated courses are not routinely recommended for corticosteroids or magnesium sulfate. In addition, the recommendations are the same for singleton and multiple gestations, and no specific recommendation exists according to maternal body mass index. Finally, a variation in guidelines regarding the administration of corticosteroids before cesarean delivery exists.

Conclusion

The adoption of an international consensus on corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate may increase their endorsement by health care professionals, leading to more favorable neonatal outcomes after preterm delivery.

Does antenatal steroids treatment in twin pregnancies prior to late preterm birth reduce neonatal morbidity? Evidence from a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) administration during the late-preterm (LPT) period in twin pregnancies is associated with decreased rate of neonatal morbidity.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study including a total of 290 women with twin pregnancies resulting in live births of 580 neonates who delivered during LPT period between 2016 and 2018 at a tertiary medical center. Patients were allocated into two groups according to ACS exposure. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between the groups. Primary outcome was neonatal composite respiratory morbidity, defined as the occurrence of at least one of the followings: RDS, TTN, O2 requirement, CPAP use or mechanical ventilation.

RESULTS

Patients exposed to ACS were older and more commonly complicated by gestational diabetes compared to the non-exposed group. Moreover, women exposed to ACS delivered earlier (35.6 vs. 36.3 weeks, P < 0.001) and more frequently by cesarean section (76.4% vs. 54.1%, P = 0.002) compared to the non-exposed group. The rate of composite respiratory morbidity did not differ between the groups. Nevertheless, neonates exposed to ACS had higher rates of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and hypoglycemia compared to neonates without prior ACS exposure (27.8% vs. 11.7%, P = 0.001; 49.3% vs. 27.1%, P < 0.001, respectively). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that gestational age at delivery was the sole independent risk factor for NICU admission, whereas late-preterm ACS exposure was the only risk factor for hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSION

LPT-ACS administration in twin pregnancies complicated by LPT birth in our study did not reduce neonatal respiratory morbidity but was associated with higher rates of hypoglycaemia.

Controversies in antenatal corticosteroids

Antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) successfully reduce the rates of neonatal mortality and morbidity after preterm birth. However, this translational success story is not without controversies. This chapter explores some contemporary controversies with ACS, including the choice of corticosteroid, use in threatened preterm birth less than 24 weeks' gestation, use in late preterm birth, use at term before cesarean delivery, and issues surrounding repeated and rescue dosing of antenatal corticosteroids. The use of ACS in special populations is also discussed. Finally, areas of future research in ACS are presented, focusing on the ability to individualize therapy.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids in twin neonates with late preterm birth (ACTWIN [Antenatal Corticosteroids in TWIN late preterm neonates] trial): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Antenatal corticosteroids have been proven to prevent adverse outcomes including respiratory morbidities in preterm neonates before 34 weeks of gestation. Recently, it has been suggested that antenatal corticosteroids may also be effective in singleton late preterm pregnancies, and guidelines recommend the use of corticosteroids in singleton pregnant women who are at risk for late preterm birth. On the contrary, there is a paucity of information regarding the effectiveness of corticosteroids in twin neonates with late preterm birth. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in late preterm twin neonates.

METHODS

In this multicentre randomized controlled trial, women who are at risk for late preterm birth will be enrolled at 34 0/7 to 36 5/7 weeks of gestation. The participants will be randomly assigned to receive antenatal corticosteroids (betamethasone 12 mg, 3 mL intramuscularly [IM]) or placebo (normal saline 3 mL IM). The perinatal outcomes will be compared between the two groups of cases. The primary outcome is severe respiratory complications (the use of continuous positive airway pressure or high-flow nasal cannula for at least 12 h, supplemental oxygen administration with a fraction of oxygen 0.3 or more for at least 24 h, mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membranes oxygenation) or perinatal death within the first 72 h of delivery. The secondary outcomes are neonatal mortality and/or other neonatal morbidities.

DISCUSSION

This study will be the first randomized controlled trial that evaluates the effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in late preterm twin neonates.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03547791 (ClinicalTrials.gov), first submitted date: March 29, 2018, first posted date: June 6, 2018 (retrospectively registered).

Timing of Antenatal Corticosteroid Administration in Monoamniotic Twins

Objective  This study was aimed to determine if different strategies of antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) administration in monoamniotic twins leads to receipt within 7 days of delivery. Study Design  This is a retrospective cohort of monoamniotic twins managed at a single institution from 2007 to 2017. Patients were classified as to whether ACS were administered upon admission or at a predetermined gestational age (grouped together as "routine") or for a change in clinical status ("indicated"). We used univariate analyses to associate ACS administration strategies with our primary outcome: receipt of ACS within 7 days of delivery. We then used generalized estimating equations to examine associations between fetal monitoring patterns and delivery within 1 week. Results  Twenty-four patients were included: eighteen patients in the "routine" group and six patients in the "indicated" group. There was no difference in optimal timing of ACS administration. Women experiencing delivery within the week were thrice more likely to spend on average more than 3 hours/day on the fetal monitor when compared with those who remained undelivered. Conclusion  Administration of ACS on admission is not effective. Fetal heart rate tracing surveillance might be a better methodology to predict delivery and guide ACS administration.

N° 364 - La Corticothérapie Prénatale Pour Améliorer Les Issues Néonatales

OBJECTIF

Évaluer les avantages et les risques de la corticothérapie prénatale chez les femmes qui présentent un risque d'accouchement prématuré ou qui subissent une césarienne à terme avant début de travail, et formuler des recommandations visant l'amélioration des issues néonatales et des issues à long terme.

OPTIONS

Administrer ou ne pas administrer une corticothérapie prénatale aux femmes qui présentent un risque élevé d'accouchement prématuré ou qui subissent une césarienne avant travail à terme. RéSULTATS: Morbidité périnatale, notamment le syndrome de détresse respiratoire, l'hémorragie intraventriculaire, la dysplasie bronchopulmonaire, l'infection, l'hypoglycémie, ainsi que les troubles de la croissance somatique et cérébrale et du neurodéveloppement; mortalité périnatale; et morbidité maternelle, notamment l'infection et la suppression surrénalienne.

UTILISATEURS CIBLES

Fournisseurs de soins de maternité, notamment les sages-femmes, les médecins de famille et les obstétriciens.

POPULATION CIBLE

Femmes enceintes. ÉVIDENCE: Nous avons interrogé les bases de données Medline, PubMed et Embase ainsi que la Bibliothèque Cochrane, de leur création au mois de septembre 2017. Nous nous sommes servis de Medical Subjet Headings (MeSH) et de mots clés en lien avec la grossesse, la prématurité, les corticostéroïdes ainsi que la mortalité et la morbidité périnatales et néonatales. Nous avons également consulté les déclarations d'organismes professionnels tels que les National Institutes of Health, l'American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, la Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, le Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists et la Société canadienne de pédiatrie pour obtenir des références additionnelles. Les essais cliniques randomisés évaluant la corticothérapie prénatale menés sur des femmes enceintes et les revues systématiques antérieures sur le sujet étaient admissibles, tout comme les données venant de revues systématiques d'études non expérimentales (études de cohorte).

VALEURS

La présente opinion de comité a été révisée et approuvée par le Comité de médecine fœto-maternelle de la SOGC, et approuvée par le Conseil de la SOGC. AVANTAGES, INCONVéNIENTS ET COûTS: L'administration d'une corticothérapie prénatale dans les sept jours précédant l'accouchement réduit significativement la morbidité et la mortalité périnatales associées à la naissance prématurée survenant entre 24+0 et 34+6 semaines de grossesse. Si la corticothérapie prénatale est administrée plus de sept jours avant l'accouchement ou après 34+6 semaines de grossesse, les effets indésirables peuvent surpasser les avantages. Les données probantes sur l'impact à long terme de la corticothérapie prénatale sont rares. Par ailleurs, les effets neurodéveloppementaux néfastes potentiels de l'exposition répétée à la corticothérapie prénatale ou de l'administration de corticostéroïdes en période préterme tardive ou à terme n'ont pas été quantifiés. MIS-à-JOUR à LA DIRECTIVE: Une revue des données probantes sera menée cinq ans après la publication de la présente directive clinique afin d'évaluer si une mise à jour complète ou partielle s'impose. Si de nouvelles données probantes importantes sont publiées avant la fin de ces cinq ans, une mise à jour tenant compte des nouvelles connaissances et recommandations sera publiée.

COMMANDITAIRES

La présente directive clinique a été élaborée à l'aide de ressources fournies par la Société des obstétriciens et gynécologues du Canada et avec l'appui des Instituts de recherche en santé du Canada (APR-126338). MOTS CLéS: Corticothérapie prénatale, maturation fœtale, prématurité, période préterme tardive, césarienne avant travail DÉCLARATION SOMMAIRES: RECOMMANDATIONS: Considérations relatives à l'âge gestationnel.