MicroRNA Associations with Preterm Labor-A Systematic Review

This systematic review delves into the connections between microRNAs and preterm labor, with a focus on identifying diagnostic and prognostic markers for this crucial pregnancy complication. Covering studies disseminated from 2018 to 2023, the review integrates discoveries from diverse pregnancy-related scenarios, encompassing gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders and pregnancy loss. Through meticulous search strategies and rigorous quality assessments, 47 relevant studies were incorporated. The synthesis highlights the transformative potential of microRNAs as valuable diagnostic tools, offering promising avenues for early intervention. Notably, specific miRNAs demonstrate robust predictive capabilities. In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis lays the foundation for subsequent research, intervention strategies and improved outcomes in the realm of preterm labor.

Analysis of the Expression of LSF Transcription Factor in the Regulation of Transcription and TSG101 during the Neoplastic Transformation of Endometrial Cells

Previous research indicates that carcinogenesis involves disrupting the functions of numerous genes, including factors involved in the regulation of transcription and cell proliferation. For these reasons, in endometrial carcinogenesis, we decided to investigate the expression of TSG101 (a suppressor of tumor transformation) and LSF (a transcription factor involved in numerous cellular processes, such as cell cycle regulation, cell growth, development, and apoptosis). LSF may be involved in the regulation of TSG101 expression. The research material consisted of endometrial cancer samples from 60 patients. The control group consisted of normal endometrium samples donated by 60 women undergoing surgery for benign diseases of the female reproductive organs. The samples were subjected to immunohistochemical staining with antibodies specific to TSG101 and LSF. Specific antibodies were used to identify TSG101 and LSF in the examined histopathological preparations. An approximately 14-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development was observed in patients with TSG expression in more than 75% of the assessed cells (4% vs. 36%; OR = 0.07; p = 0.0182). There was a four-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development in patients with LSF expression in more than 50% of the assessed cells (32% vs. 64%; OR = 0.26; p = 0.0262). A more than three-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development was observed in patients with LSF expression in more than 75% of the assessed cells (24% vs. 52%; OR = 0.29; p = 0.0454). Endometrial cancer was diagnosed in those with a lower level of TSG101 expression than in those with a cancer-free endometrium. Decreased expression of TSG101 may be a marker of endometrial cancer, and increased expression of LSF when diagnosed with endometrial cancer may indicate greater advancement of the disease. These markers might be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers-however, there is a lack of a correlation between them.

Evaluating Current Molecular Techniques and Evidence in Assessing Microbiome in Placenta-Related Health and Disorders in Pregnancy

The microbiome is of great interest due to its potential influence on the occurrence and treatment of some human illnesses. It may be regarded as disruptions to the delicate equilibrium that humans ordinarily maintain with their microorganisms or the microbiota in their environment. The focus of this review is on the methodologies and current understanding of the functional microbiome in pregnancy outcomes. We present how novel techniques bring new insights to the contemporary field of maternal-fetal medicine with a critical analysis. The maternal microbiome in late pregnancy has been extensively studied, although data on maternal microbial changes during the first trimester are rare. Research has demonstrated that, in healthy pregnancies, the origin of the placental microbiota is oral (gut) rather than vaginal. Implantation, placental development, and maternal adaptation to pregnancy are complex processes in which fetal and maternal cells interact. Microbiome dysbiosis or microbial metabolites are rising as potential moderators of antenatal illnesses related to the placenta, such as fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and others, including gestational diabetes and preterm deliveries. However, because of the presence of antimicrobial components, it is likely that the bacteria identified in placental tissue are (fragments of) bacteria that have been destroyed by the placenta's immune cells. Using genomic techniques (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metaproteomics), it may be possible to predict some properties of a microorganism's genome and the biochemical (epigenetic DNA modification) and physical components of the placenta as its environment. Despite the results described in this review, this subject needs further research on some major and crucial aspects. The phases of an in utero translocation of the maternal gut microbiota to the fetus should be explored. With a predictive knowledge of the impacts of the disturbance on microbial communities that influence human health and the environment, genomics may hold the answer to the development of novel therapies for the health of pregnant women.

Influence of Pre-Pregnancy Obesity on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism with Selected Adipokines in the Maternal and Fetal Compartment

A higher body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of maternal and perinatal complications. This study aimed to analyze selected parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, including adipokines, in obese pre-pregnant women, and their influence on the birth weight of newborns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group (O) consisted of 34 pregnant women with higher BMI (obese) before pregnancy. The control group (C) was 27 pregnant women with target BMI and physiological pregnancy. The BMI index: body weight [kg]/(height [m]² was assessed on the first obstetrical visit. The research material was the serum of pregnant women collected in the third trimester of pregnancy and umbilical cord blood collected immediately after delivery. Selected parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and adipokines were determined.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between the study group and the control group concerning the concentrations of insulin, glucose, VLDL, adiponectin, TNF-α, HOMA-IR, as well as LDH and cholesterol in maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood serum. Total cholesterol and HDL in both maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood were statistically significantly lower than those in the control group. The concentration of triglycerides (TG) and resistin in the blood serum of obese mothers were higher than those in the control group (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups regarding the concentrations of TG and resistin in the umbilical cord blood. The concentration of LDL cholesterol in the umbilical blood serum in the obese group was statistically significantly lower than that in the control group. The concentration of leptin in maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood serum in the study group was statistically significantly higher than that in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregestational obesity does not substantially affect the basic parameters of carbohydrate metabolism in pregnant women, but it disturbs the lipid profile, which is manifested by a significant increase in triglycerides and a decrease in the level of HDL cholesterol in the serum. Preexisting obesity increases the concentration of leptin and resistin in the serum of pregnant women, which may be caused by the increased volume of adipose tissue. The concentrations of leptin and resistin in the blood of pregnant women correlate positively, and the concentrations of adiponectin and TNF-α negatively correlate with pre-pregnancy BMI values. There is a positive correlation between the concentration of leptin in the serum of umbilical cord blood and the birth weight of the newborn, which suggests that this parameter contributes to the pathomechanism of macrosomia.

Comparative Analysis of the Placental Microbiome in Pregnancies with Late Fetal Growth Restriction versus Physiological Pregnancies

A comparative analysis of the placental microbiome in pregnancies with late fetal growth restriction (FGR) was performed with normal pregnancies to assess the impact of bacteria on placental development and function. The presence of microorganisms in the placenta, amniotic fluid, fetal membranes and umbilical cord blood throughout pregnancy disproves the theory of the "sterile uterus". FGR occurs when the fetus is unable to follow a biophysically determined growth path. Bacterial infections have been linked to maternal overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as various short- and long-term problems. Proteomics and bioinformatics studies of placental biomass allowed the development of new diagnostic options. In this study, the microbiome of normal and FGR placentas was analyzed by LC-ESI-MS/MS mass spectrometry, and the bacteria present in both placentas were identified by analysis of a set of bacterial proteins. Thirty-six pregnant Caucasian women participated in the study, including 18 women with normal pregnancy and eutrophic fetuses (EFW > 10th percentile) and 18 women with late FGR diagnosed after 32 weeks of gestation. Based on the analysis of the proteinogram, 166 bacterial proteins were detected in the material taken from the placentas in the study group. Of these, 21 proteins had an exponentially modified protein abundance index (emPAI) value of 0 and were not included in further analysis. Of the remaining 145 proteins, 52 were also present in the material from the control group. The remaining 93 proteins were present only in the material collected from the study group. Based on the proteinogram analysis, 732 bacterial proteins were detected in the material taken from the control group. Of these, 104 proteins had an emPAI value of 0 and were not included in further analysis. Of the remaining 628 proteins, 52 were also present in the material from the study group. The remaining 576 proteins were present only in the material taken from the control group. In both groups, we considered the result of ns prot ≥ 60 as the cut-off value for the agreement of the detected protein with its theoretical counterpart. Our study found significantly higher emPAI values of proteins representative of the following bacteria: Actinopolyspora erythraea, Listeria costaricensis, E. coli, Methylobacterium, Acidobacteria bacterium, Bacteroidetes bacterium, Paenisporsarcina sp., Thiodiazotropha endol oripes and Clostridiales bacterium. On the other hand, in the control group statistically more frequently, based on proteomic data, the following were found: Flavobacterial bacterium, Aureimonas sp. and Bacillus cereus. Our study showed that placental dysbiosis may be an important factor in the etiology of FGR. The presence of numerous bacterial proteins present in the control material may indicate their protective role, while the presence of bacterial proteins detected only in the material taken from the placentas of the study group may indicate their potentially pathogenic nature. This phenomenon is probably important in the development of the immune system in early life, and the placental microbiota and its metabolites may have great potential in the screening, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of FGR.

The Association between the Bisphenols Residues in Amniotic Fluid and Fetal Abnormalities in Polish Pregnant Women-Its Potential Clinical Application

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the concentrations of bisphenols residues in the amniotic fluid (AF) samples collected during amniocentesis and fetal chromosomal abnormalities in pregnant women. A total of 33 pregnant Polish women aged between 24 and 44 years, and screened to detect high risk for chromosomal defects in the first trimester, were included in this study. Samples were collected from these patients during routine diagnostic and treatment procedures at mid-gestation. The concentrations of various bisphenols residues in the samples were determined by liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QqQ-MS/MS). Residues of eight analytes (BPS, BPF, BPA, BPAF, BADGE, BADGE•2H₂O, BADGE•H₂O•HCl and BADGE•2HCl) were detected in amniotic fluid samples in the range 0.69 ng/mL to 3.38 ng/mL. Fetuses with chromosomal abnormalities showed a slightly higher frequency of occurrence of selected bisphenols residues in the AF samples collected between 15-26 weeks of pregnancies. Finally, the proposed method was applied in the simultaneous determination of several endocrine-disrupting chemicals from bisphenol group in 33 human AF samples. BADGE•H2O•HCl has been identified in the AF samples taken from women older than average in the examined group. The number of detected compounds has been significant for the following analytes: BPS, BPAF, BADGE•H₂O•HCl and BADGE. The proposed method may be an attractive alternative for application in large-scale human biomonitoring studies.

Obesity - a still underestimated risk factor during antenatal corticosteroids therapy

Pregnant obese patients are at a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes (GDM). We present a case of an obese patient who developed GDM G2 and periventricular leukomalacia in the neonate after antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) treatment. We suggest that routine blood glucose monitoring should be considered during a course of prenatal steroid therapy in all patients in a higher risk group for glucose intolerance. In cases of hyperglycemia, intensive insulin therapy should be advised. More research and new recommendations are needed on antenatal glucocorticoids (GCS), obesity, and GDM.

Placental proteome in late‑onset of fetal growth restriction

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) occurs when the fetus does not reach its genetically programmed intrauterine potential for growth and affects ~5–10% of pregnancies. This condition is one of the leading causes of perinatal mortality and morbidity associated with obstetric and neonatal complications. Placental dysfunction in FGR causes an impairment in the transfer of nutrients and oxygen from the mother to the developing fetus. Maternal adaptations to placental insufficiency may also play a role in the pathophysiology of FGR. The present study aimed to compare the proteome of the placentas of 18 women with the physiological course of pregnancy and eutrophic fetus [estimated fetal weight (EFW) >10th percentile; control group] and 18 women with late FGR (EFW <10th percentile) diagnosed after 32 weeks of pregnancy, according to the Delphi consensus (study group). The U. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare two independent groups. The R. Spearman correlation coefficient significance test was used to assess the existence of a relationship between the analyzed measurable parameters. P<0.05 was considered to indicate a statistically significant difference. The tests showed the presence of 356 different proteins which were responsible for the regulation of gene transcription control, inhibiting the activity of proteolytic enzymes, regulation of trophoblast proliferation and angiogenesis and inflammatory response. In the FGR placental proteome, other detected proteins were mostly involved in response to oxidative stress, cellular oxidation and detoxication, apoptosis, hemostatic and catabolic processes, energy transduction protein interactions, cell proliferation, differentiation and intracellular signaling. The present study used chromatographic mass-spectrometry to compare the placental proteome profiles in pregnancies complicated by late-onset FGR and normal pregnancy. Comparative analysis of proteomes from normal and FGR placentas showed significant differences. Further research is needed to clarify maternal and fetal adaptations to FGR.

Thromboelastometry as an Ancillary Tool for Evaluation of Coagulation Status after rFVIIa Therapy in a Pregnant Woman with Severe Hypoproconvertinemia-A Case Series and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare hemorrhagic diathesis. In females, heavy menstrual and postpartum bleeding can appear as a consequence of its deficiency. Supplementation of the recombinant FVIIa is widely accepted. The supplementation effect in FVII-deficient subjects is difficult to predict, and severe hemorrhage has been described even when FVII levels after supplementation were within normal ranges. The aim of this report is to present the application of thromboelastometry to control the coagulation status in a patient with severe FVII deficiency during pregnancy and delivery, supplemented by rFVIIa per protocol complicated with life-threatening venous thromboembolism. Methods: Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) was performed in 16 pregnant women: in one 28 year old primigravida at 35 weeks of pregnancy with congenital FVII deficiency after rFVIIa administration and 15 healthy women at 38 gestational weeks. The results were compared. Results: The thromboelastometry results showed significant shortening of the clotting time in the extrinsic and the intrinsic pathway in the hypoproconvertinemia patient after rFVIIa administration in relation to healthy pregnant women. A significant reduction in maximum lysis of the clot after FVII supplementation was observed. Conclusions: The thromboelastometry results showed a significant hypercoagulable state with hypoproconvertinemia. Thrombotic complications after delivery might be prevented by the reduction in rFVIIa guided by thromboelastometry. Thromboelastometry performed on a pregnant woman with factor VII deficiency during the supplementation of rFVIIa in peripartum time might be helpful in order to determine an individual, effective dosage regimen of rFVIIa to ensure full correction of clotting disorders without the tendency to develop thrombosis, but further studies are needed.

P1 promoter IGF-1 polymorphism and IGF-1, IGF-R, LSF, and TSG 101 expression profile in endometriosis

OBJECTIVES

The presence of the endometrium outside the uterine cavity affects about 10% of women of childbearing age. Studies of the progression of endometriosis to cancer have been supported by numerous evidences of gene expression or gene defect caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. We decided to check the expression of selected factors responsible for the proliferation, as in the stages of neoplasia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A group of 80 women with ovary localization of endometriosis was qualified for research. The control group was 90 patients with ovarian simplex or follicular cysts. The DNA isolation, immunohistochemical analysis of IGF 1, IGF-R, TSG 101, and LSF expressions with a quantitative scoring of slides and electron microscopy was performed.

RESULTS

The IGF-1-immunopositive cells in the reference group were in statistically significantly higher number compared to the cells forming the foci of endometriosis (p = 0.0282). However, the number of IGF-R-immunopositive cells was comparable to the endometriosis (p = 0.1264). In the control group, the number of LSF-immunopositive cells was statistically significantly higher in comparison to endometriosis foci (p = 0.000001), but the number of TSG 101-immunositive cells was comparable to endometriosis foci (p = 0.3834). A weak negative correlation between the number of cells expressing the TSG 101 factor and the IGF-1 receptor was found in the endometriosis group (r = -0.26, p = 0.0196). The analysis of CA single nucleotide polymorphism in the DNA isolated from both groups showed a comparable incidence of MSS and MSI-L genotypes (chi2 p = 0,9160).

CONCLUSIONS

How these factors affect the development of endometriosis and whether they could be helpful in the diagnosis requires further research.

Scar Tissue after a Cesarean Section-The Management of Different Complications in Pregnant Women

The definition of a cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is the localization of the gestational sac (GS) in the cicatrix tissue, which is created in the front wall of the uterus after a previous cesarean section (CS). The worldwide prevalence of CSP has been growing rapidly. However, there are no general recommendations regarding prophylaxis and treatment of the abnormalities of the anterior wall of the uterus discovered in a non-pregnant myometrium, or how to deal with existing cases of CSP. We present the latest knowledge, a holistic approach to the biology, histology, imaging, and management concerning post-CS scars based on our cases, which were treated in the Department of Pregnancy and Pathology of Pregnancy in the Medical University of Lublin, Poland. In our study, we present images of tissue samples of areas with a cicatrix in the uterus, and ultrasound and MRI images of CSP. We discuss the advances in the biology of the post-CS scar tissue, the prevention techniques used to repair the scar defect (niche) before the pregnancy, and the treatment of different complications of CSP, such as the rupture of the gravid uterus or the dehiscence of the myometrium.

The Influence of Maternal Obesity on Cell-Free Fetal DNA and Blood Pressure Regulation in Pregnancies with Hypertensive Disorders

Background and Objectives: obesity and blood pressure disorders are one of the main risk factors for antenatal, intra, postpartum, and neonatal complications. In preeclampsia (PE), the placental hypoxia leads to vascular endothelium dysfunction, cell necrosis, and apoptosis. This condition is associated with the release of free fetal DNA (cffDNA) circulating in plasma. The disturbance of the efficiency of vasodilatation and blood pressure regulation in PE can be confirmed by analyzing the apelin, salusin, and prosalusin. This study aimed to assess the influence of obesity on cffDNA, and the effectiveness of maintaining normal blood pressure in patients with preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. Material and Methods: the research material was blood serum and oral mucosa swabs, obtained from 168 patients. Pregnant women were divided into the following: a control group (C)-67 women; a gestational hypertension group (GH)-35 patients; a preeclampsia with obesity group (PE + O) (pre-gravid BMI > 30)-23 patients. The rest were lean preeclamptic women (PE)-66 patients-(pre-gravid BMI < 25 in 43 women). Results: the cffDNA was observed in 1.50% of women in the C group, in 2.45% in the GH group, but in 18.18% of lean patients with preeclampsia. The cffDNA was detected in 58% of obese pregnant women with PE. The greater the placental hypoxia was in preeclampsia, the less efficient the hypotensive mechanisms, according to an analysis of the studied adipokines. The prosalusin concentration was significantly lower in the PE group with cffDNA than in the PE group without it (p = 0.008). Apelin was higher in the PE group with cffDNA (p = 0.006) compared to other groups. The same results were also observed in the subgroup with obesity. Conclusion: in preeclamptic women, obesity seems to act as an additive factor of placental damage by means of the dysregulation of hypotensive mechanisms.

Elastography and Metalloproteinases in Patients at High Risk of Preterm Labor

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Its etiopathology is multifactorial; therefore, many of the tests contain the assessment of the biochemical factors and ultrasound evaluation of the cervix in patients at risk of preterm delivery. The study aimed at evaluating the socioeconomic data, ultrasound examinations with elastography, plasma concentrations of MMP-8 and MMP-9 metalloproteinases, and vaginal secretions in the control group as well as patients with threatened preterm delivery (high-risk patients). The study included 88 patients hospitalized in the Department of Obstetrics and Pregnancy Pathology, SPSK 1, in Lublin. Patients were qualified to the study group (50) with a transvaginal ultrasonography of cervical length (CL) ≤ 25 mm. The control group (38) were patients with a physiological course of pregnancy with CL > 25 mm. In the study group, the median length of the cervix was 17.49 mm. Elastographic parameters: strain and ratio were 0.20 and 0.83. In the control group, the median length of the cervix was 34.73 mm, while the strain and ratio were 0.20 and 1.23. In the study group, the concentration of MMP-8 in the serum and secretions of the cervix was on average 74.17 and 155.46 ng/mL, but in the control group, it was significantly lower, on average 58.49 and 94.19 ng/mL. The concentration of MMP-9 in both groups was on the same level. Evaluation of the cervical length and measurement of MMP-8 concentration are the methods of predicting preterm delivery in high-risk patients. The use of static elastography did not meet the criteria of a PTB marker.

Chaos and cancers. Theories concerning carcinogenesis

One of the most intriguing problems in biomedical sciences is the theory explaining cancer formation. It is known that cancer is the result of many molecular processes, the presence of oncogenic factors and the loss of apoptosis of affected cells. We currently have hypotheses based on carcinogenesis because of a single cell gene mutation, i.e. somatic mutation theory (SMT), or disorders in tissue architecture and intercellular communication called (TOFT) Tissue Organization Field Theory. An attempt to combine these separate and compatible cause and effect pathways into one unified theory of cancer transformation is the theory of chaotic adaptation. The new interpretative model is the systemic-evolution theory of cancer (SETOC) which postulates disintegration between the symbiosis of "energy" and "information" in normal cells. There are also epidemiological studies confirming that some types of cancer arise from viral infection. So, let us ask the question, can one hypothesis explain all the features of cancer?

Management in cases of large uterine myomas in pregnancy

Objectives

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in women of procreative age. The effects of their occurrence affect the course of pregnancy by increasing the frequency of abortions, premature delivery or premature abruption of the placenta. Medical treatment includes clinical observation, pharmacological pain control, myomectomy during pregnancy or perinatal hysterectomy.

Case presentation

We present a survey of literature and the case of a pregnant woman with an enormous uterine fibroid 23×13×16 cm on the basis of which a diagnostic-therapeutic scheme for tumors of the reproductive organs during pregnancy has been developed.

Conclusions

The study presents improved recommendations for management the pregnancies in presence of the uterine myomas based on clinical practice.

Two-Component Analysis of Photoluminescence Bands for Semiconductor Quantum Dots in Solutions

We present the quantitative analysis of the photoluminescence (PL) obtained for semiconductor TOPO-capped CdSe/ZnS QDs in solutions at 77–293[Formula: see text]K. The PL bands are approximated more accurately when assuming the superposition of at least two Gaussian components differing considerably in the linewidth (FWHM) and having different nature.

Temperature Dependence of Photoluminescence for Spin-Coated Semiconductor Quantum Dots and Quantum Dot-Dye Nanoassemblies on Quartz Substrate

The attachment of pyridyl substituted porphyrin molecule to the surface of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots in solutions is realized in the competition with capping ligand TOPO molecules resulting in the specific change of photoluminescence for the quantum dots across the temperature range of 77–290[Formula: see text]K. We have shown that fixation of alone quantum dots or quantum dot-porphyrin nanoassemblies on quartz substrate changes significantly temperature dependence of photoluminescence. In contrast to the samples in a glass-forming solution no phase transition of the TOPO capping layer was observed upon removal of the capping layer.

Modern Ultrasonography of the Umbilical Cord: Prenatal Diagnosis of Umbilical Cord Abnormalities and Assessement of Fetal Wellbeing

The umbilical cord is the only connection between the mother and the fetus, through which it is possible to transport respiratory gases, nutrients, and metabolites. Thanks to the umbilical cord, the fetus has also the ability to move, which is necessary for its proper psychomotor development. The correct structure and function of umbilical vessels and the entire umbilical cord determine the possibility of proper development and survival of the fetus. Umbilical cord anatomy should be assessed in the ultrasound examination in the first trimester. It is of vital importance to confirm the correct number of umbilical vessels and their intra-abdominal course, as well as carefully assessing the abdominal and placental insertion sites. In the latter half of pregnancy, the use of the Doppler imaging enables assessment of the function of the fetal-placental vessels, thus providing valuable information about the condition of the fetus.

Prenatal diagnosis of persistent right umbilical vein - Incidence and clinical impact. A prospective study

Background

Persistent right umbilical vein (PRUV) is usually an isolated finding but it may be accompanied by other fetal malformations.

Aims

We aimed to determine the incidence of prenatally diagnosed PRUV in a referral population, assess the neonatal outcome and discuss the findings together with those from previous publications.

Materials and methods

A total of 2360 women with low‐risk singleton pregnancies were examined in the second and third trimesters. A transabdominal convex volume transducer was used. B‐mode was applied in each patient. Scanning of the venous system included imaging of the target vessels with two‐dimensional colour Doppler mapping. The diagnosis of PRUV was made in a transverse section of the fetal abdomen. Three‐dimensional ultrasounds were performed as necessary, when anomalous cases were encountered.

Results

The incidence of PRUV in our population was 12/2360 = 0.5%, and it was higher than in other retrospective studies. In 75% (n = 9), PRUV was an isolated finding where delivery was uneventful and the postnatal outcome was favourable. In two cases PRUV was accompanied by omphalocele, and in one case by tetralogy of Fallot and single umbilical artery.

Conclusions

PRUV is an uncommon prenatal finding. Screening for this anomaly can be easily performed in all pregnant patients. A diagnosis of PRUV should be followed by a thorough fetal morphology scan in order to exclude any other malformations, especially those of the cardiovascular system.

[What do we konw about the Zika virus?]

Zika virus (HIV) was first identified in 1947 and upto 2007 the infections in humans have been reported sporadically. Currently, the World Health Organization warns that the rapid spread of the virus Zika in both Americas and an increase in the number of children born with microcephaly in these regions begins to be a serious epidemiological problem. Known ways of spreading this RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family is: with blood, sexual, vertical and even breast feeding. Currently used diagnostic tests are not entirely perfect, as they can detect infections by other viruses in this group but they are available in Poland. The treatment of clinical sings of ZIKV as unusual, flu-like symptoms is symptomatic. Unfortunately, the most dangerous consequences of infection tend to be: a statement of microcephaly in children of mothers bitten by the mosquitoes in the areas of epidemy of Zika and symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome. For this reason, doctors of all specialties should have current knowledge of the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and consequences of this infection.

[What do we konw about the Zika virus?]

Zika virus (HIV) was first identified in 1947 and upto 2007 the infections in humans have been reported sporadically. Currently, the World Health Organization warns that the rapid spread of the virus Zika in both Americas and an increase in the number of children born with microcephaly in these regions begins to be a serious epidemiological problem. Known ways of spreading this RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family is: with blood, sexual, vertical and even breast feeding. Currently used diagnostic tests are not entirely perfect, as they can detect infections by other viruses in this group but they are available in Poland. The treatment of clinical sings of ZIKV as unusual, flu-like symptoms is symptomatic. Unfortunately, the most dangerous consequences of infection tend to be: a statement of microcephaly in children of mothers bitten by the mosquitoes in the areas of epidemy of Zika and symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome. For this reason, doctors of all specialties should have current knowledge of the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and consequences of this infection.

[Recent recommendations in the management of early pregnancy failure]

Spontaneous abortion refers to pregnancy loss up to the end of 22 weeks' (21(+7)) gestation. Currently, the terminology suggests early pregnancy loss or early pregnancy failure. Miscarriage occurs in 10-20% of pregnancies, and most of them take place up to 13 weeks'gestation. Management in the case of vaginal bleeding in women with a confirmed pregnancy requires a physical examination (with a speculum), and a biochemical and ultrasound diagnosis. Conservative, pharmacological or surgical management can be offered to patients with an incomplete miscarriage. The pharmacological method of proceeding in miscarriages is recommended by many scientific societies (ACOG, RCOG), and WHO, as well as in manuals for students and for obstetrician-gynecologists developed by leading experts in Poland. The procedure for pharmacological treatment with mizoprostol is: 1. Pregnancy under 9 weeks gestation: 800 mg vaginally, and if there is no effect after 4 h another 400 mg vaginally or orally. 2. Pregnancy over 9 weeks gestation: up to 4 x 400 mg every 3 hours. 3. In the absence of any effect after 36 hours from the start of the treatment, a surgical procedure is recommended. 4. The prevention of chlamydia infection in each patient: 1 g of metronidazole rectally and one dose of 1 g azithromycin, or 2 x 100 mg of doxycycline for 7 days. The legal aspects regarding the administrative proceedings after early pregnancy failure relate to the correct reporting of feat death on proper forms.

Complementary role of magnetic resonance imaging after ultrasound examination in assessing fetal renal agenesis: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Ultrasonography is used routinely during pregnancy to screen and detect fetal abnormalities. However, there are some conditions like anhydramnios (a prevalent state in renal agenesis) or maternal obesity that may limit the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography. Magnetic resonance imaging has proven to be useful when ultrasound alone is insufficient to make a correct diagnosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the case of a 22-year-old Caucasian woman who was admitted to our unit at the 26th week of gestation for a detailed anatomy scan. Anhydramnios and failure to visualize the kidneys, bladder and renal vessels were confirmed with the use of sonography in our department. Since the lack of amniotic fluid limited the acoustic window for fetal ultrasonography, a magnetic resonance imaging scan was requested to confirm suspected renal agenesis. A fetal magnetic resonance imaging scan was performed and confirmed the suspected diagnosis. A baby boy was born by breech vaginal delivery after spontaneous onset of labor at the 34th week of gestation. The boy weighed 1690g, with Apgar scores of 6 and 4 at two and five minutes respectively, and died one hour after delivery. The diagnosis of bilateral renal agenesis was confirmed on autopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential contribution of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnostic procedure after inconclusive ultrasound examination during the assessment of fetal urinary tract abnormalities in the third trimester.