Type 1 diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, and pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-study

Bone development in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction caused by maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunctions

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) affects a large proportion of infants, particularly in underdeveloped countries. Among the main causes of IUGR, maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunction is highlighted, either due to its high incidence or due to the severity of the immediate and mediated changes that these dysfunctions cause in the fetus and the mother. Although the effects of endocrine and metabolic disorders have been widely researched, there are still no reviews that bring together and summarize the effects of these conditions on bone development in cases of IUGR. Therefore, the present literature review was conducted with the aim of discussing bone changes observed in fetuses with IUGR caused by maternal endocrine-metabolic dysfunction. The main endocrine dysfunctions that occur with IUGR include maternal hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and hypoparathyroidism. Diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders, and obesity are the most important maternal metabolic dysfunctions that compromise fetal growth. The bone changes reported in the fetus are, for the most part, due to damage to cell proliferation and differentiation, as well as failures in the synthesis and mineralization of the extracellular matrix, which results in shortening and fragility of the bones. Some maternal dysfunctions, such as hyperthyroidism, have been widely studied, whereas conditions such as hypoparathyroidism and gestational hypertensive disorders require further study regarding the mechanisms underlying the development of bone changes. Similarly, there is a gap in the literature regarding changes related to intramembranous ossification, as most published articles only describe changes in endochondral bone formation associated with IUGR. Furthermore, there is a need for more research aimed at elucidating the late postnatal changes that occur in the skeletons of individuals affected by IUGR and their possible relationships with adult diseases, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Autoimmune diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes: an umbrella review

BACKGROUND

There is a high prevalence of autoimmune conditions in women specially in the reproductive years; thus, the association with adverse pregnancy outcomes has been widely studied. However, few autoimmune conditions/adverse outcomes have been studied more than others, and this umbrella review aims to consolidate existing knowledge in this area with the aim to provide new knowledge and also identify gaps in this research area.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to December 2023. Screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal (AMSTAR 2) were done by two independent reviewers. Data were synthesised narratively and quantitatively. Relative risks (RR)/odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were reported.

RESULTS

Thirty-two reviews were included consisting of 709 primary studies. The review reported the association between 12 autoimmune conditions and 16 adverse pregnancy outcomes. Higher risk of miscarriage is reported in women with Sjögren's syndrome RR 8.85 (95% CI 3.10-25.26) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) OR 4.90 (3.10-7.69). Pre-eclampsia was reported higher in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) OR 4.19 (3.08-5.71) and SLE OR 3.20 (2.54-4.20). Women reported higher risk of diabetes during pregnancy with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) OR 2.96 (1.47-5.98). There was an increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction in women with systemic sclerosis OR 3.20 (2.21-4.53) and coeliac disease OR 1.71 (1.36-2.14). Preterm birth was associated with T1DM OR 4.36 (3.72-5.12) and SLE OR 2.79 (2.07-3.77). Low birth weight babies were reported in women with women with SLE or systemic sclerosis OR 5.95 (4.54-7.80) and OR 3.80 (2.16-6.56), respectively. There was a higher risk of stillbirth in women with T1DM OR 3.97 (3.44-4.58), IBD OR 1.57 (1.03-2.38), and coeliac disease OR 1.57 (1.17-2.10). T1DM in women was associated with 32% lower odds of small for gestational age baby OR 0.68 (0.56-0.83).

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with autoimmune conditions are at a greater risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Further research is required to develop better preconception to postnatal care for women with autoimmune conditions.

Management of type 2 diabetes in pregnancy: a narrative review

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) at reproductive age is rising. Women with T2DM have a similarly high risk for pregnancy complications as pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. To reduce adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, such as preeclampsia and preterm delivery, a multi-target approach is necessary. Tight glycemic control together with appropriate gestational weight gain, lifestyle measures, and if necessary, antihypertensive treatment and low-dose aspirin is advised. This narrative review discusses the latest evidence on preconception care, management of diabetes-related complications, lifestyle counselling, recommendations on gestational weight gain, pharmacologic treatment and early postpartum management of T2DM.

Management of type 1 diabetes in pregnancy: update on lifestyle, pharmacological treatment, and novel technologies for achieving glycaemic targets

Glucose concentrations within target, appropriate gestational weight gain, adequate lifestyle, and, if necessary, antihypertensive treatment and low-dose aspirin reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery, and other adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by type 1 diabetes. Despite the increasing use of diabetes technology (ie, continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pumps), the target of more than 70% time in range in pregnancy (TIRp 3·5-7·8 mmol/L) is often reached only in the final weeks of pregnancy, which is too late for beneficial effects on pregnancy outcomes. Hybrid closed-loop (HCL) insulin delivery systems are emerging as promising treatment options in pregnancy. In this Review, we discuss the latest evidence on pre-pregnancy care, management of diabetes-related complications, lifestyle recommendations, gestational weight gain, antihypertensive treatment, aspirin prophylaxis, and the use of novel technologies for achieving and maintaining glycaemic targets during pregnancy in women with type 1 diabetes. In addition, the importance of effective clinical and psychosocial support for pregnant women with type 1 diabetes is also highlighted. We also discuss the contemporary studies examining HCL systems in type 1 diabetes during pregnancies.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction Due to Gestational Diabetes: From Pathophysiology to Diagnosis and Management

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) represents a condition where the fetal weight is less than the 10th percentile for gestational age, or the estimated fetal weight is lower than expected based on gestational age. IUGR can be caused by various factors such as maternal, placental or fetal factors and can lead to various complications for both the fetus and the mother, including fetal distress, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and maternal hypertension. Women with gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of developing IUGR. This article reviews the different aspects of gestational diabetes in addition to IUGR, the diagnostic methods available for IUGR detection, including ultrasound and Doppler studies, discusses the management strategies for women with IUGR and gestational diabetes and analyzes the importance of early detection and timely intervention to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancy in chronic kidney disease: diagnostic challenges, surveillance and treatment throughout the spectrum of kidney disease

Pregnancy requires several physiological adaptations from the maternal organism, including modifications in the glomerular filtration rate and renal excretion of several products. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can negatively affect these modifications and consequently is associated with several adverse maternal and fetal adverse outcomes (gestational hypertension, progression of renal disease, pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm delivery). A multidisciplinary vigilance of these pregnancies is essential in order to avoid and/or control the harmful effects associated with this pathology. Dialysis and transplantation can decrease the risks of maternal and fetal complications, nonetheless, the rates of complications remain high comparing with a normal pregnancy. Several recent developments in this area have improved quality and efficacy of treatment of pregnant women with CKD. This article summarizes the most recent literature about CKD and pregnancy.

Postpartum care of women with renal disease

Twenty-three percent of women with known chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been reported to demonstrate the first decline in kidney function between giving birth and six-weeks postpartum. As such, these women warrant close monitoring during the postpartum period irrespective of their pregnancy journey. Substantial haemodynamic variability during pregnancy and postpartum renders estimated glomerular filtration rate inaccurate, and poorly defined normal ranges of markers of kidney function at this time pose challenges for accurate assessment of renal complications. Multi-disciplinary specialist care is therefore essential, with consideration of specific implications of any known renal diagnosis and with observation for the development of postpartum complications of pregnancy. Furthermore, the postpartum period affords time to further investigate and diagnose kidney disease revealed by pregnancy. Good care planning and communication in the postpartum period has the potential to improve long-term health outcomes for women with known or new CKD and will be discussed in this review.

Renal disease in pregnancy: Fetal, neonatal and long-term outcomes

Renal disease in women of childbearing age is estimated to be approximately 3%; consequently, renal disease is not an uncommon comorbidity in pregnancy. There has been considerable evidence published over the last 20 years to suggest that renal disease in pregnancy is associated with higher maternal, fetal, and offspring morbidity. Studies published are largely heterogeneous; include unmatched cohort studies; and focus on early neonatal outcomes such as prematurity, small for gestational age, and neonatal unit admission. There appears to be an inverse relationship between maternal renal function and likelihood of neonatal morbidity using these outcome measures. Overall though, data regarding medium-to long-term outcomes for children born to mothers with renal disease are scarce. However, in view of emerging epidemiological evidence regarding cardiovascular programming in intrauterine life in those born premature or small for gestational age, it is likely that this population of children remain at high risk of cardiovascular disease as adults. The scope of this review is to amalgamate and summarize existing evidence regarding the outcomes of infants born to mothers with renal disease. Focus will be given to pregnancy-related acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, dialysis, and transplantation.

Pregnancy in Chronic Kidney Disease: Need for Higher Awareness. A Pragmatic Review Focused on What Could Be Improved in the Different CKD Stages and Phases

Pregnancy is possible in all phases of chronic kidney disease (CKD), but its management may be difficult and the outcomes are not the same as in the overall population. The prevalence of CKD in pregnancy is estimated at about 3%, as high as that of pre-eclampsia (PE), a better-acknowledged risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. When CKD is known, pregnancy should be considered as high risk and followed accordingly; furthermore, since CKD is often asymptomatic, pregnant women should be screened for the presence of CKD, allowing better management of pregnancy, and timely treatment after pregnancy. The differential diagnosis between CKD and PE is sometimes difficult, but making it may be important for pregnancy management. Pregnancy is possible, even if at high risk for complications, including preterm delivery and intrauterine growth restriction, superimposed PE, and pregnancy-induced hypertension. Results in all phases are strictly dependent upon the socio-sanitary system and the availability of renal and obstetric care and, especially for preterm children, of intensive care units. Women on dialysis should be aware of the possibility of conceiving and having a successful pregnancy, and intensive dialysis (up to daily, long-hours dialysis) is the clinical choice allowing the best results. Such a choice may, however, need adaptation where access to dialysis is limited or distances are prohibitive. After kidney transplantation, pregnancies should be followed up with great attention, to minimize the risks for mother, child, and for the graft. A research agenda supporting international comparisons is highly needed to ameliorate or provide knowledge on specific kidney diseases and to develop context-adapted treatment strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes in CKD women.

Association of the presence of microangiopathy with adverse pregnancy outcome in type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Microangiopathy is common after a long duration in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Pregnancies with end-age vascular complications are a big challenge to multidisciplinary physicians. The objective of this study was to assess the risk of microangiopathy for adverse pregnancy outcome in T1DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles appearing in the literature up to October 1, 2017. Analysis of cohort studies were performed with Review Manager 5.3 and Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) was chosen to evaluate the risk of bias.

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies involving 3239 pregnancies were retrieved and analyzed. Microangiopathy for diabetic nephropathy (DN), microalbuminuria and diabetic retinopathy (DR) significantly increased the risk of preeclampsia (PE) (OR of 7.19, [95%CI: 5.15, 10.03], 4.19, [95%CI: 2.78, 6.31] and 3.02, [95%CI: 2.24, 4.07], respectively). Significant association of the presence of DN with preterm delivery was demonstrated (OR = 4.14, 95%CI [2.84, 6.02]), with small for gestation age was demonstrated (OR = 6.23, 95%CI [2.75, 14.14]) and with large for gestation age was demonstrated (OR = 0.41, 95%CI [0.27, 0.62]). A mild association of the presence of DR with preterm delivery was demonstrated (OR = 1.57, 95%CI [1.08, 2.29]).

CONCLUSION

The presence of microangiopathy before or in early pregnancy increased the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome in T1DM. We highlighted it was important that White's classification and a full assessment of vasculopathy should be carry out before pregnancy to ensure a well-planned pregnancy. Further work should be designed to establish risks model involving microangiopathy and find out whether early intervention with strict blood sugar control or medication such as low-dose aspirin will reduce the incidence of PE in T1DM.

Two pregnancies after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation: A case report

Simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation can successfully restore fertility in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and kidney failure. There have been few cases of pregnancy after simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation, and a second pregnancy is rare. We report a case of two live births in rapid succession in a simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation recipient, complicated by pre-eclampsia but with excellent fetal and graft outcomes. The first pregnancy was achieved with IVF, while the second was achieved naturally. Simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation with stable pre-pregnancy graft function enabled this patient to achieve successful pregnancy. However, both pregnancies were complicated by transient renal graft dysfunction and pre-eclampsia precipitating pre-term birth.

Diabetic Nephropathy and Pregnancy

Women with diabetic nephropathy have challenging pregnancies, with pregnancy outcomes far worse than expected for the stage of chronic kidney disease. The underlying mechanisms that cause the adverse events remain poorly understood, but it is a widely held belief that substantial endothelial injury in these women likely contributes. Maternal hypertension, preeclampsia, and cesarean section rates are high, and offspring are often preterm and of low birth weight, with additional neonatal complications associated with glycemic control. This review will present the current evidence for maternal and fetal outcomes of women with diabetic nephropathy and describe prepregnancy, antenatal, and peripartum optimization strategies.

21st century obstetrics: a 50-year-old nullip-walk in the park?

We discuss the case of a 50-year-old nulliparous woman who conceived after in vitro fertilisation. She had multiple medical comorbidities and presented an obstetric and medical challenge. She was carefully managed through pregnancy and had a successful outcome. In this report, we explore the medical complexity, as well as ethical and logistic issues involved.

Pregnancy, Proteinuria, Plant-Based Supplemented Diets and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis: A Report on Three Cases and Critical Appraisal of the Literature

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly recognized in pregnant patients. Three characteristics are associated with a risk of preterm delivery or small for gestational age babies; kidney function reduction, hypertension, and proteinuria. In pregnancy, the anti-proteinuric agents (ACE-angiotensin converting enzyme-inhibitors or ARBS -angiotensin receptor blockers) have to be discontinued for their potential teratogenicity, and there is no validated approach to control proteinuria. Furthermore, proteinuria usually increases as an effect of therapeutic changes and pregnancy-induced hyperfiltration. Based on a favourable effect of low-protein diets on proteinuria and advanced CKD, our group developed a moderately protein-restricted vegan-vegetarian diet tsupplemented with ketoacids and aminoacids for pregnant patients. This report describes the results obtained in three pregnant patients with normal renal function, nephrotic or sub-nephrotic proteinuria, and biopsy proven diagnosis of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, a renal lesion in which hyperfiltration is considered of pivotal importance (case 1: GFR (glomerular filtration rate): 103 mL/min; proteinuria 2.1 g/day; albumin 3.2 g/dL; case 2: GFR 86 mL/min, proteinuria 3.03 g/day, albumin 3.4 g/dL; case 3: GFR 142 mL/min, proteinuria 6.3 g/day, albumin 3.23 g/dL). The moderately restricted diet allowed a stabilisation of proteinuria in two cases and a decrease in one. No significant changes in serum creatinine and serum albumin were observed. The three babies were born at term (38 weeks + 3 days, female, weight 3180 g-62th centile; 38 weeks + 2 days, female, weight 3300 g-75th centile; male, 38 weeks + 1 day; 2770 g-8th centile), thus reassuring us of the safety of the diet. In summary, based on these three cases studies and a review of the literature, we suggest that a moderately protein-restricted, supplemented, plant-based diet might contribute to controlling proteinuria in pregnant CKD women with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. However further studies are warranted to confirm the potential value of such a treatment strategy.

Piper betel leaves induces wound healing activity via proliferation of fibroblasts and reducing 11β hydroxysteriod dehydrogenase-1 expression in diabetic rat

BACKGROUND

Increased oxidative stress and stress enzyme 11β hydroxysteriod dehydrogenase-1 (11β HSD-1) served as the major contributing factors for delayed wound healing in diabetes mellitus (DM). Piper betel (PB) leaves are reported to possess anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to investigate the effectiveness of topical application of PB leaves extract on oxidative stress and 11β hydroxysteriod dehydrogenase-1 (11β HSD-1) expression in diabetic wounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total 64 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly chosen. The experimental rats received a single intramuscular injection of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg). Four full thickness (6 mm) wounds were created on the dorsum of each rat. The animals were equally divided (n = 8) into four groups based on the days of treatment (i.e. days 3 and 7): Control (Ctrl), diabetic untreated (DM-Ctrl), diabetic treated with 1% silver nitrate cream (DM-SN) and diabetic treated with 50 mg/kg of P. betel leaves extract (DM-PB). The rats were sacrificed on day 3 and 7 of post wound creations.

RESULTS

Following day 7 wound creation, topical application of PB extract showed significant increase in hydroxyproline content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) level and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) level, 11β-HSD-1 enzyme expression in the diabetic wounds compared to untreated diabetic wounds. The results were supported by the observations based on histological and ultrastructural features of the wound tissue applied with PB extract.

CONCLUSION

PB leaves extract improved the delayed wound healing in diabetes mellitus by decreasing the oxidative stress markers and 11β HSD-1 expression.

Managing pregnancy in chronic kidney disease: improving outcomes for mother and baby

Parenthood is a central focus for women with chronic kidney disease, but raises important fears and uncertainties about risks to their own and their baby’s health. Pregnancy in women with background kidney disease, women receiving dialysis, or those with a functioning kidney transplant poses a challenging clinical scenario, associated with high maternal–fetal morbidity and potential impact on maternal renal health. Improvements in care over recent decades have led to a paradigm shift with cautious optimism and growing interest regarding pregnancies in women with chronic kidney disease. In this review, we discuss obstetric and renal outcomes, and practical aspects of management of pregnancy in this complex cohort.

A best practice position statement on pregnancy in chronic kidney disease: the Italian Study Group on Kidney and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is increasingly undertaken in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and, conversely, CKD is increasingly diagnosed in pregnancy: up to 3 % of pregnancies are estimated to be complicated by CKD. The heterogeneity of CKD (accounting for stage, hypertension and proteinuria) and the rarity of several kidney diseases make risk assessment difficult and therapeutic strategies are often based upon scattered experiences and small series. In this setting, the aim of this position statement of the Kidney and Pregnancy Study Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology is to review the literature, and discuss the experience in the clinical management of CKD in pregnancy. CKD is associated with an increased risk for adverse pregnancy-related outcomes since its early stage, also in the absence of hypertension and proteinuria, thus supporting the need for a multidisciplinary follow-up in all CKD patients. CKD stage, hypertension and proteinuria are interrelated, but they are also independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy-related outcomes. Among the different kidney diseases, patients with glomerulonephritis and immunologic diseases are at higher risk of developing or increasing proteinuria and hypertension, a picture often difficult to differentiate from preeclampsia. The risk is higher in active immunologic diseases, and in those cases that are detected or flare up during pregnancy. Referral to tertiary care centres for multidisciplinary follow-up and tailored approaches are warranted. The risk of maternal death is, almost exclusively, reported in systemic lupus erythematosus and vasculitis, which share with diabetic nephropathy an increased risk for perinatal death of the babies. Conversely, patients with kidney malformation, autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease, stone disease, and previous upper urinary tract infections are at higher risk for urinary tract infections, in turn associated with prematurity. No risk for malformations other than those related to familiar urinary tract malformations is reported in CKD patients, with the possible exception of diabetic nephropathy. Risks of worsening of the renal function are differently reported, but are higher in advanced CKD. Strict follow-up is needed, also to identify the best balance between maternal and foetal risks. The need for further multicentre studies is underlined.

Diagnosis and Management of IUGR in Pregnancy Complicated by Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

This review discusses available literature on the diagnosis and management of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in women with type 1 diabetes. IUGR is diagnosed when ultrasound-estimated fetal weight is below the 10th percentile for gestational age. IUGR diagnosis implies a pathologic process behind low fetal weight. IUGR in pregnancy complicated by type 1 diabetes is usually caused by placental dysfunction related to maternal vasculopathy. Prevention of IUGR should ideally start before pregnancy. Strict glycemic control and intensive treatment of nephropathy and hypertension are essential. Low-dose aspirin initiated before 16 gestational weeks can also reduce IUGR risk in women with vasculopathy. Umbilical and uterine artery Doppler studies can guide diagnosis and surveillance of fetuses with IUGR. Decisions regarding the timing of delivery should be based on assessment of umbilical artery Doppler. The risk of prematurity and impaired fetal lung maturation should always be considered, especially in fetuses younger than 32 weeks.

Diabetic Nephropathy in Women With Preexisting Diabetes: From Pregnancy Planning to Breastfeeding

In women with preexisting diabetes and nephropathy or microalbuminuria, it is important to deliver careful preconception counselling to assess the risk for the mother and the foetus, for optimizing glycaemic status and to adjust medical treatment. If serum creatinine is normal in early pregnancy, kidney function is often preserved during pregnancy, but complications such as severe preeclampsia and preterm delivery are still common. Perinatal mortality is now comparable with that in women with diabetes and normal kidney function. Besides strict glycaemic control before and during pregnancy, early and intensive antihypertensive treatment is important to optimize pregnancy outcomes. Methyldopa, labetalol, nifedipine and diltiazem are considered safe, whereas angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers should be stopped before or at confirmation of pregnancy. Supplementation with folic acid in early pregnancy and low-dose aspirin from 10 to 12 weeks reduces the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. During breastfeeding, several ACE inhibitors are considered safe.

Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Syndrome Rather Than a Single Disease

The term "diabetic kidney" has recently been proposed to encompass the various lesions, involving all kidney structures that characterize protean kidney damage in patients with diabetes. While glomerular diseases may follow the stepwise progression that was described several decades ago, the tenet that proteinuria identifies diabetic nephropathy is disputed today and should be limited to glomerular lesions. Improvements in glycemic control may have contributed to a decrease in the prevalence of glomerular lesions, initially described as hallmarks of diabetic nephropathy, and revealed other types of renal damage, mainly related to vasculature and interstitium, and these types usually present with little or no proteinuria. Whilst glomerular damage is the hallmark of microvascular lesions, ischemic nephropathies, renal infarction, and cholesterol emboli syndrome are the result of macrovascular involvement, and the presence of underlying renal damage sets the stage for acute infections and drug-induced kidney injuries. Impairment of the phagocytic response can cause severe and unusual forms of acute and chronic pyelonephritis. It is thus concluded that screening for albuminuria, which is useful for detecting "glomerular diabetic nephropathy", does not identify all potential nephropathies in diabetes patients. As diabetes is a risk factor for all forms of kidney disease, diagnosis in diabetic patients should include the same combination of biochemical, clinical, and imaging tests as employed in non-diabetic subjects, but with the specific consideration that chronic kidney disease (CKD) may develop more rapidly and severely in diabetic patients.

Vascular complications in the diabetic pregnancy

Long-standing hyperglycemia frequently leads to vasculopathy. Microvascular disease is characterized by retinopathy and nephropathy, while macrovascular involvement can affect coronary arteries. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy, when present, is generally associated with retinal and/or renal involvement. Early identification of these diabetic complications allows appropriate counseling and early treatment. Among women with diabetic vasculopathy, nephropathy, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and fetal growth restriction are frequently observed. Furthermore, women with impaired renal function in early pregnancy have increased risk of long-term deterioration of glomerular filtration rate. Proliferative retinopathy can progress during pregnancy and 1 year after delivery, but long-term effects are not likely to occur. When coronary artery disease or gastroparesis diabeticorum are present, excessive maternal and fetal morbidity is observed. When modern management is synchronized with early medical care, favorable maternal and perinatal outcomes can be expected.

Risk of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Women with CKD

CKD is increasingly prevalent in pregnancy. In the Torino-Cagliari Observational Study (TOCOS), we assessed whether the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes is associated with CKD by comparing pregnancy outcomes of 504 pregnancies in women with CKD to outcomes of 836 low-risk pregnancies in women without CKD. The presence of hypertension, proteinuria (>1 g/d), systemic disease, and CKD stage (at referral) were assessed at baseline. The following outcomes were studied: cesarean section, preterm delivery, and early preterm delivery; small for gestational age (SGA); need for neonatal intensive care unit (NICU); new onset of hypertension; new onset/doubling of proteinuria; CKD stage shift; "general" combined outcome (preterm delivery, NICU, SGA); and "severe" combined outcome (early preterm delivery, NICU, SGA). The risk for adverse outcomes increased across stages (for stage 1 versus stages 4-5: "general" combined outcome, 34.1% versus 90.0%; "severe" combined outcome, 21.4% versus 80.0%; P<0.001). In women with stage 1 CKD, preterm delivery was associated with baseline hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 3.42; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.87 to 6.21), systemic disease (OR, 3.13; 95% CI, 1.51 to 6.50), and proteinuria (OR, 3.69; 95% CI, 1.63 to 8.36). However, stage 1 CKD remained associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes (general combined outcome) in women without baseline hypertension, proteinuria, or systemic disease (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.27 to 2.79). The risk of intrauterine death did not differ between patients and controls. Findings from this prospective study suggest a "baseline risk" for adverse pregnancy-related outcomes linked to CKD.