Maternal vascular indices at 36 weeks' gestation in small and growth restricted fetuses

OBJECTIVE

To compare maternal vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters at 35-37 weeks' gestation, in pregnancies complicated by small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses and those with fetal growth restriction (FGR).

METHODS

This was a prospective observational non-intervention study in women with singleton pregnancies attending for a routine hospital visit at 35+0 to 36+6 weeks' gestation. The visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters obtained by a non-invasive operator independent device, including pulse wave velocity, augmention index, cardiac output, stroke volume, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total peripheral resistance and fetal heart rate. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were excluded and the values in the SGA and FGR groups were compared between them and with unaffected pregnancies. Diagnosis of SGA was based on the birth of a baby with birthweight below the 10th percentile for gestational age. In FGR, in addition to a birthweight below the 10th percentile, at the 35-37 weeks scan Doppler studies had shown that the uterine artery or umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) was above the 95th percentile for gestational age or the fetal middle cerebral artery PI was below the 5th percentile.

RESULTS

In the 6,413 women included in the study there were 605 (9.4%) cases of SGA, 133 (2.1%) of FGR and 5,675 (88.5%) unaffected by SGA or FGR. Women with SGA or FGR, compared to unaffected pregnancies, had increased peripheral vascular resistance and reduced cardiac output. Central systolic and diastolic blood pressure were also increased, whereas aortic stiffness assessed by pulse wave velocity and augmentation index did not differ between affected and unaffected pregnancies. In the FGR, compared to the SGA group, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure were higher, whereas, heart rate was lower.

CONCLUSIONS

In SGA and FGR pregnancies there are deranged maternal hemodynamic responses when these are compared to normal pregnancies. Mothers with FGR babies have higher central blood pressure compared to SGA ones, but it remains unclear whether these differences are driven by the size of the fetus or pathological fetal growth. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

First trimester screening identifies maternal cardiac maladaptation at mid-gestation

BACKGROUND

First, a logistic regression model, based on maternal demographic characteristics and medical history and blood pressure at 11-13 weeks' gestation, can identify about 70% of women who develop future chronic hypertension (CH) in the three years following pregnancy, at screen positive rate of 10%. Second, at mid-gestation women who subsequently develop hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) have increased peripheral vascular resistance and mild cardiac functional and morphological alterations and these cardiovascular abnormalities persist for at least 2 years after delivery.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether the use of the first-trimester risk for subsequent development of CH can help to identify women at high risk for cardiovascular maladaptation at mid-gestation.

METHODS

Prospective observational study in 3812 women with singleton pregnancies women attending for a routine hospital visit at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks' gestation and again at 19+1 to 23+3 weeks at King's College Hospital, London, UK between August 2019 and August 2020. The first-trimester visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history and measurement of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. At mid-gestation detailed maternal cardiovascular assessment was carried out. The association of risk for development of CH, determined from first-trimester assessment, and cardiovascular indices at mid-gestation was examined.

RESULTS

Women who are at high-risk for development of future CH, compared to those at low-risk, had a higher incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). In addition, high-risk women, had reduced systolic and diastolic function at mid-gestation. Among women with HDP, those who were high-risk for future CH, compared to those at low-risk, also had worse cardiac function at mid-gestation.

CONCLUSION

Use of a model for first-trimester prediction of subsequent development of CH can identify women who show evidence of cardiac maladaptation at mid-gestation. Further studies are needed to clarify whether women who screen as high-risk for future CH, compared to those at low-risk, have reduced cardiac function beyond pregnancy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Long-term cardiovascular assessment of women who had a pregnancy complicated by a hypertensive disorder

BACKGROUND

Women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are at increased risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease later in life. However, from studies so far, it is difficult to define whether this association reflects preexisting maternal cardiovascular risk or merely reflect a potentially causal relationship between HDP and later cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVES

We performed detailed cardiovascular assessment in women at mid-gestation, prior to development of a HDP and at 2 years post-partum aiming to identify cardiovascular changes prior to development of HDP and to assess persistent cardiovascular alterations long after the HDP event.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in which we performed detailed cardiovascular assessment at mid-gestation and at median of 2.3 years (interquartile range 2.1 to 2.4 years) post-partum. We examined 112 women who developed a HDP and 451 women whose pregnancy was not complicated by hypertension. We used conventional and more advanced echocardiographic techniques, i.e. speckle tracking, to accurately determine left ventricular systolic and diastolic function. We used M-mode measurements to determine left ventricular remodeling and estimate left ventricular mass. Maternal vascular status was assessed using ophthalmic artery Doppler and by calculating peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio, as a marker of peripheral vascular resistance.

RESULTS

At mid-gestation, women who subsequently developed HDP had increased ophthalmic artery PSV ratio. These women also had mild cardiac functional and morphological alterations which were mostly accounted for by maternal cardiovascular risk factors. At 2 years post-partum, women who experienced HDP, compared to those who did not, had cardiovascular abnormalities with reduction in left ventricular systolic and diastolic function which remained after multivariable analysis. Longitudinal analysis demonstrated that the evolution of cardiovascular changes in the HDP and non-HDP groups was similar.

CONCLUSION

Mild cardiac functional and morphological alterations precede the development of HDP and such changes persist for at least 2 years postpartum. The cardiac changes are likely to be the consequence of preexisting maternal cardiovascular risk factors rather than an adverse consequence of HDP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Impact of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy on offspring cardiovascular function. Study from fetal life to early childhood

OBJECTIVE

Epidemiological studies suggest that children following in utero exposure to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) may be at increased long term cardiovascular risk. However, data in early childhood are lacking. We aimed to investigate the independent influence of HDP on childhood heart after accounting for differences in childhood risk factor profile.

METHODS

We performed detailed cardiovascular assessment in fetuses at mid-gestation and at a median of 2.3 years (IQR: 2.1, 2.4 years) postnatally in 71 cases where the mothers had HDP and 304 who did not have HDP.

RESULTS

There were no differences in demographic characteristics between groups but in the HDP group delivery was earlier and birthweight was lower. In fetal life, there were no significant differences in cardiac function or structure between the HDP and non-HDP groups. In early childhood, in the HDP compared to the non-HDP group, there was greater relative wall thickness (0.7 SD 0.3 vs. 0.6 SD 0.3 mm, p=0.047) and increased left ventricular mass (80.9 SD 20.4 vs. 75.7 SD 16.5, p=0.024); however, these differences were abolished following multivariable analysis. Longitudinal analysis revealed that in HDP, compared to the non-HDP group, there was no difference in the change of cardiac functional indices from fetal life to early childhood.

CONCLUSION

Epidemiological studies suggest that HDP have an adverse impact on offspring cardiovascular health, but such an effect is not apparent in fetal life or in early childhood. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler and biomarkers of impaired placentation at 36 weeks' gestation in pregnancies with small fetuses

OBJECTIVES

First, to compare ophthalmic artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio and biomarkers of impaired placentation at 36 weeks' gestation in women who delivered a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) or growth-restricted (FGR) neonate, in the absence of hypertensive disorder, with those of women who developed pre-eclampsia (PE) or gestational hypertension (GH) and of women unaffected by SGA, FGR, PE or GH. Second, to examine the associations of PSV ratio, uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) with birth-weight Z-score or percentile.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women with a singleton pregnancy attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination of fetal anatomy and growth, and measurement of maternal ophthalmic artery PSV ratio, UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1. Values of PSV ratio, UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1 were converted to multiples of the median (MoM) or delta values. Median MoM or deltas of these biomarkers in the SGA, FGR, PE and GH groups were compared with those in the unaffected group. Regression analysis was used to examine the relationship of PSV ratio delta, UtA-PI MoM, PlGF MoM and sFlt-1 MoM with birth-weight Z-score, after exclusion of PE and GH cases.

RESULTS

The study population of 9033 pregnancies included 7696 (85.2%) that were not affected by FGR, SGA, PE or GH, 182 (2.0%) complicated by FGR in the absence of PE or GH, 698 (7.7%) with SGA in the absence of FGR, PE or GH, 236 (2.6%) with PE and 221 (2.4%) with GH. Compared with unaffected pregnancies, in the FGR and SGA groups, the PSV ratio delta and sFlt-1 MoM were increased and PlGF MoM was decreased; UtA-PI MoM was increased in the FGR group but not the SGA group. The magnitude of the changes in biomarker values relative to the unaffected group was smaller in the FGR and SGA groups than that in the PE and GH groups. In non-hypertensive pregnancies, there were significant inverse associations of PSV ratio delta and UtA-PI MoM with birth-weight Z-score, such that the values were increased in small babies and decreased in large babies. There was a quadratic relationship between PlGF MoM and birth-weight Z-score, with low PlGF levels in small babies and high PlGF levels in large babies. There was no significant association between sFlt-1 MoM and birth-weight Z-score.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmic artery PSV ratio, reflective of peripheral vascular resistance, and UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1, biomarkers of impaired placentation, are altered in pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorder and, to a lesser extent, in non-hypertensive pregnancies delivering a SGA or FGR neonate. The associations between the biomarkers and birth-weight Z-score suggest the presence of a continuous physiological relationship between fetal size and peripheral vascular resistance and placentation, rather than a dichotomous relationship of high peripheral resistance and impaired placentation in small compared to non-small fetuses. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Maternal cardiovascular function at mid-gestation is related to placental angiogenesis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether placental function, reflected in the levels of angiogenic factors, is associated with maternal cardiac function and hemodynamic responses at 19 to 24 weeks' gestation after adjustment for maternal risk factors and pregnancy complications.

METHODS

Prospective study on women with singleton pregnancies attending Kings' College Hospital, London, UK for a routine hospital visit at 19-24 weeks' gestation. We recorded maternal characteristics and measured mean arterial pressure, maternal heart rate, serum placental growth factor and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1). We also performed maternal echocardiogram to assess cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance as well as indices of diastolic and systolic function.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 4006 women. Lower placental growth factor (PlGF) values were significantly associated with higher mean arterial pressure (MAP) (p<0.001), lower maternal heart rate (p<0.001), lower mitral valve s' velocity (p= 0.027) and higher left atrial volume (p=0.022) after adjustment for maternal characteristics and pregnancy complications. sFLT-1 was positively related to relative wall thickness (p= 0.012), whereas sFLT-1/ PlGF ratio was negatively associated with mitral valve A (p= 0.006) and positively associated with left atrial volume (p= 0.015) and MAP (p= 0.004). The magnitude of these associations was similar in the subgroup of women without any risk factors from their obstetric and medical history.

CONCLUSION

A continuous link of moderate strength between angiogenic factors and subclinical maternal cardiac function alterations is present at mid-gestation, independently of preexisting maternal risk factors and pregnancy complications. Impaired placental function appears to be related to a mild systolic and diastolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler at 36 weeks' gestation in prediction of pre-eclampsia: validation and update of previous model

OBJECTIVE

To validate and extend a model incorporating maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 35-37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of subsequent development of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a prospective validation study of screening for PE (defined according to the 2019 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists criteria) by maternal ophthalmic artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio in 6746 singleton pregnancies undergoing routine care at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation (validation dataset). Additionally, the data from the validation dataset were combined with those of 2287 pregnancies that were previously used for development of the model (training dataset), and the combined data were used to update the original model parameters. The competing-risks model was used to estimate the individual patient-specific risk of delivery with PE at any time and within 3 weeks from assessment by a combination of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history with PSV ratio alone and in combination with the established PE biomarkers of mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1). We evaluated the predictive performance of the model by examining, first, the ability to discriminate between the PE and non-PE groups using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve and the detection rate (DR) at fixed screen-positive (SPR) and false-positive rates of 10% and, second, calibration by measuring the calibration slope and calibration-in-the-large. McNemar's test was used to compare the performance of screening by a biophysical test (maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI and PSV ratio) vs a biochemical test (maternal factors, PlGF and sFlt-1), low PlGF concentration (< 10th percentile) or high sFlt-1/PlGF concentration ratio (> 90th percentile).

RESULTS

In the validation dataset, the performance of screening by maternal factors and PSV ratio for delivery with PE within 3 weeks and at any time after assessment was consistent with that in the training dataset, and there was good agreement between the predicted and observed incidence of PE. In the combined data from the training and validation datasets, good prediction for PE was achieved in screening by a combination of maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI, PlGF, sFlt-1 and PSV ratio, with a DR, at a 10% SPR, of 85.0% (95% CI, 76.5-91.4%) for delivery with PE within 3 weeks and 65.7% (95% CI, 59.2-71.7%) for delivery with PE at any time after assessment. The performance of a biophysical test was superior to that of screening by low PlGF concentration or high sFlt-1/PlGF concentration ratio but not significantly different from the performance of a biochemical test combining maternal factors with PlGF and sFlt-1 for both PE within 3 weeks and PE at any time after assessment.

CONCLUSION

Maternal ophthalmic artery PSV ratio at 35-37 weeks' gestation in combination with other biomarkers provides effective prediction of subsequent development of PE. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Three-dimensional echocardiography and strain cardiac imaging in women with pre-eclampsia with follow-up to 6 months postpartum

OBJECTIVE

Epidemiological studies have established that women with pre-eclampsia (PE) are at increased long-term cardiovascular risk. Mild cardiac functional changes have been documented during pregnancy in women with PE, but their evolution from presentation to the postpartum period remains poorly defined. The aim of this study was to assess biventricular cardiovascular indices using novel and sensitive two-dimensional and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiographic modalities in pregnancy and to track alterations in both risk factors and cardiovascular indices in the postpartum period.

METHODS

A total of 59 women with PE were examined at 34 (interquartile range, 31-37) weeks' gestation and at 2-3 days, 3 months and 6 months postpartum. During pregnancy, 118 women with a normotensive pregnancy were also recruited as controls. Biventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular mass were measured by 3D echocardiography. Biventricular global longitudinal strain and strain of the left atrium were assessed using speckle-tracking imaging.

RESULTS

In women with PE, compared with controls, there was lower left ventricular diastolic function (left atrial reservoir strain, 44.1% vs 49.2%) and increased left ventricular mass index (148 vs 128 g/m2 ), but there was no significant difference in right ventricular functional indices. These alterations in cardiac indices were mostly explained by differences in maternal risk factors. In the postpartum period, most cardiac indices improved by 3 months. Multivariable linear mixed-model analysis demonstrated that this improvement was mostly attributed to reduction in weight and blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

In women with PE, there is postpartum improvement in cardiac functional and structural indices in parallel with improvement in their risk factor profile. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Fetal cardiac function at midgestation and conception by in-vitro fertilization

OBJECTIVE

To assess differences in cardiac morphology and function at midgestation in fetuses conceived by in-vitro fertilization (IVF), using fresh or frozen embryo transfer, compared with those conceived naturally.

METHODS

This was a prospective study of 5801 women with a singleton pregnancy attending for a routine ultrasound examination at 19 + 0 to 23 + 6 weeks' gestation, including 343 that conceived by IVF. Conventional and more advanced echocardiographic modalities, including speckle-tracking analysis, were used to assess fetal cardiac function in the right and left ventricles. The morphology of the fetal heart was assessed by calculating the right and left sphericity index. Placental perfusion and function were assessed by measurement of uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) and serum placental growth factor (PlGF), respectively.

RESULTS

Fetuses that were conceived by IVF, compared with those conceived spontaneously, had significantly lower right and left ventricular sphericity index, higher left ventricular global longitudinal strain and lower left ventricular ejection fraction. There were no significant differences in any of the cardiac indices within the IVF group between the fresh and frozen embryo transfers. In the IVF group, compared with spontaneously conceived pregnancies, UtA-PI was lower and PlGF was higher, suggesting better placental perfusion and function.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that, in IVF pregnancies, compared with those conceived spontaneously, there is evidence of fetal cardiac remodeling at midgestation, which is not related to the use of fresh or frozen embryo transfer. In the IVF group, compared with naturally conceived pregnancies, fetal heart was globular and left ventricular systolic function was mildly reduced. Whether these cardiac changes are accentuated later in pregnancy and remain in the postnatal period remains to be established. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Vascular phenotype at 35-37 weeks' gestation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

To examine the vascular phenotype at 35-37 weeks' gestation of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and compare it to that in women without GDM, using ophthalmic artery Doppler and carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 37 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ophthalmic artery Doppler for calculation of the peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio and assessment of cardiac output, stroke volume, total peripheral resistance, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure, carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity and augmentation index. All measurements were standardized to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and elements from the medical history, and the adjusted values in the GDM group were compared with those in the non-GDM group.

RESULTS

The study population of 2018 pregnancies contained 218 (10.8%) that developed GDM, including 78 (35.8%) that were treated with diet alone, 81 (37.2%) treated with metformin and 59 (27.1%) treated with insulin with or without metformin. In the GDM group, compared with the non-GDM group, there were significantly higher ophthalmic artery PSV ratio, carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity and central systolic blood pressure, but there was no significant difference in cardiac output, stroke volume, total peripheral resistance, central diastolic blood pressure or augmentation index. In the GDM group, women treated with metformin or insulin had a higher ophthalmic artery PSV ratio compared with those treated with diet alone. Additionally, compared with the diet group, the metformin group had higher central systolic blood pressure and the insulin group had a higher carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity.

CONCLUSION

Women with GDM have evidence of early vascular disease, and this may contribute to their long-term cardiovascular risk. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Midgestation cardiovascular phenotype in women who develop gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and/or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are at increased long-term cardiovascular risk. Mild cardiac functional alterations have been detected in women with GDM or HDP in midgestation, prior to clinical onset of the disease, but these functional alterations have not been found to be useful as screening tools. In contrast, increased impedance to peripheral blood flow, measured by echocardiography or ophthalmic artery Doppler, has been shown to provide incremental value to maternal characteristics for the prediction of pre-eclampsia. However, it is unknown whether similar changes can be detected in women at risk of GDM. In this study, we performed detailed cardiovascular phenotyping in a large, unselected population of women in midgestation to identify similarities and differences in cardiovascular adaptation in women who are at risk of GDM and/or HDP.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries, echocardiography for assessment of maternal cardiovascular function and measurement of uterine artery pulsatility index and serum placental growth factor (PlGF) for assessment of placental perfusion and function. The measured indices were converted to either multiples of the median (MoM) values or deviation from the median (delta) after adjusting for maternal characteristics and elements of medical history. Biomarker delta or MoM values in the GDM and HDP groups were compared with those in the unaffected group using 95% CI and t-tests.

RESULTS

The study population of 5214 pregnancies contained 4429 (84.9%) that were unaffected by GDM or HDP, 509 (9.8%) complicated by GDM without HDP, 41 (0.8%) with GDM and HDP, and 235 (4.5%) with HDP without GDM. In HDP cases, with or without GDM, there was evidence of impaired placentation, with a decrease in PlGF, and increased impedance to flow in the peripheral circulation, suggested by an increase in ophthalmic artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio, peripheral vascular resistance assessed on echocardiography and mean arterial pressure. In the GDM group without HDP, there was no evidence of altered placental perfusion or function and ophthalmic artery PSV ratio was not significantly different from that in the unaffected group; peripheral vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure were increased but to a lesser degree than in the HDP group. In the HDP group, there was an increase in global longitudinal systolic strain and slight increase in isovolumic relaxation time, while in the GDM group, there was an increase in mitral valve E/e', myocardial performance index and global longitudinal systolic strain.

CONCLUSIONS

In midgestation, women who subsequently develop HDP or GDM have a mild subclinical reduction in left ventricular function. In HDP cases, with or without GDM, there is evidence of impaired placentation and all biomarkers of impedance to peripheral blood flow are consistently increased. In contrast, in the GDM group without HDP, biomarkers of placental function are normal and those of impedance to peripheral blood flow are either marginally increased or not significantly different from those in normal pregnancies. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler at 19-23 weeks' gestation in pregnancies that deliver small-for-gestational-age neonates

OBJECTIVES

First, to explore hemodynamic differences between pregnancies delivering a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonate in the absence of hypertensive disorders and those that develop pre-eclampsia (PE) or gestational hypertension (GH), by comparing the ophthalmic artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio and first (PSV1) and second (PSV2) PSV at 19-23 weeks' gestation, and second, to compare these pregnancies for markers of placental perfusion and function.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination for assessment of fetal anatomy and growth, and measurement of maternal ophthalmic artery PSV ratio, PSV1, PSV2, mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) and serum placental growth factor (PlGF). The values of PSV ratio, PSV1, PSV2, MAP, UtA-PI and PlGF were converted to multiples of the median (MoM) or deltas. Mean MoMs or deltas of these biomarkers in the SGA, PE and GH groups were compared with those in the unaffected group. The definition of SGA was birth weight below the 10^th percentile in the absence of PE or GH.

RESULTS

The study population of 5214 pregnancies contained 4375 (83.9%) that were unaffected by SGA, PE or GH, 563 (10.8%) complicated by SGA, 157 (3.0%) with PE and 119 (2.3%) with GH. There were three main findings of the study. First, in the SGA, PE and GH groups, compared with unaffected pregnancies, the PSV ratio delta, PSV2 MoM, MAP MoM and UtA-PI MoM were increased and PlGF MoM was decreased; however, the magnitude of most changes was smaller in the SGA group than in PE and GH groups. Second, in the PE and GH groups, but not in the SGA group, PSV1 MoM was increased. Third, in general, in the pathological pregnancies, the magnitude of deviation of biomarkers from unaffected pregnancies was greater for those delivering at < 37 than at ≥ 37 weeks' gestation.

CONCLUSION

In mid-gestation, pregnancies that subsequently develop hypertensive disorders and those delivering a SGA neonate, compared with unaffected pregnancies, have abnormal uteroplacental measurements and increased maternal ophthalmic artery PSV ratio. These data suggest similar pathophysiology in the two conditions, with evidence of placental dysfunction and increased peripheral vascular resistance, but the magnitude of abnormalities is greater in hypertensive disorders. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler at 11-13 weeks' gestation in prediction of pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVES

To examine the potential value of maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 11-13 weeks' gestation, alone and in combination with the established first-trimester biomarkers of pre-eclampsia (PE), including uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), in the prediction of subsequent development of PE.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination for fetal anatomy and growth, assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries and calculation of the second-to-first peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio, and measurement of MAP and serum PAPP-A. In addition, a case-control study was carried out for measurement of PlGF in stored samples from cases that developed PE and unaffected controls. The values of PSV ratio, UtA-PI, MAP, PAPP-A and PlGF were converted to multiples of the median or deltas to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and medical history. The competing-risks model was used to estimate the individual patient-specific risk of delivery with PE at < 37 and < 41 + 3 weeks' gestation for various combinations of markers. Performance was assessed using detection rates, at a fixed false-positive rate (FPR), and areas under the receiver-operating-characteristics curves. Modeled performance was also assessed.

RESULTS

The study population of 4066 pregnancies contained 114 (2.8%) that developed PE, including 25 (0.6%) that delivered with PE at < 37 weeks' gestation. The PSV ratio was significantly increased in PE pregnancies, and the effect of PE depended on gestational age at delivery, with the deviation from normal being greater for early than for late PE. Modeling demonstrated that the addition of PSV ratio improved the detection rate, at a 10% FPR, of preterm PE provided by maternal risk factors alone (from 46.3% to 58.4%), maternal factors, MAP and UtA-PI (65.9% to 70.6%), and maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI and PlGF (74.6% to 76.7%). The PSV ratio did not improve the prediction of term PE provided by any combination of biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

Ophthalmic artery PSV ratio at 11-13 weeks' gestation is a potentially useful biomarker for prediction of subsequent development of preterm PE, but larger studies are needed to validate this finding. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Maternal cardiac function in twin pregnancy at 19-23 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVES

To compare maternal cardiovascular indices at 19-23 weeks' gestation between twin and singleton pregnancies and assess the impact of chorionicity on these parameters.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women with twin pregnancy attending for a hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 24 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history and maternal cardiovascular assessment. In a previous study of 4795 women with singleton pregnancies at 19-23 weeks' gestation, multivariable linear regression models were fitted between the various cardiovascular indices and elements of maternal characteristics and medical history. In this study, we calculated multiples of the median (MoM) and delta values according to the singleton models and assessed the distributional properties of these MoM and delta values in twin as compared with singleton pregnancies.

RESULTS

The study population of 155 women with twin pregnancy included 86 dichorionic and 69 monochorionic cases. In general, there was a similar distribution of maternal cardiovascular indices in monochorionic and dichorionic twin pregnancies. In both types of twin pregnancy, compared with singleton pregnancy, there was an increase in isovolumetric relaxation time, left atrial area and myocardial performance index, and a decrease in mitral valve E/A. Left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area and relative wall thickness were also increased in twin compared with singleton pregnancy. The magnitude of the increase in left atrial area was greater in dichorionic compared with monochorionic pregnancies. Additionally, mitral valve E was decreased and left atrial volume was increased in dichorionic but not in monochorionic pregnancies, while isovolumetric contraction time was increased in monochorionic but not in dichorionic pregnancies. Left ventricular myocardial deformation was similar between twin and singleton pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS

In twin pregnancies at mid-gestation, maternal systolic and diastolic function is reduced when compared with singletons. The patterns of cardiovascular adaptation are similar between monochorionic and dichorionic pregnancies and resemble those reported in uncomplicated singleton pregnancy later in gestation. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler at 35-37 weeks' gestation in pregnancies with small or growth-restricted fetuses

OBJECTIVES

First, to compare the ophthalmic artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio at 35-37 weeks' gestation among women who delivered small-for-gestational-age (SGA) or growth-restricted (FGR) neonates in the absence of hypertensive disorders, women who developed pre-eclampsia (PE) or gestational hypertension (GH) and those without SGA, FGR, PE or GH. Second, to examine the association of PSV ratio with placental growth factor (PlGF) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Third, to assess the associations of PSV ratio, PlGF and MAP with birth-weight Z-score and percentile.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination of fetal anatomy and growth, and measurement of maternal ophthalmic artery PSV ratio, first (PSV1) and second (PSV2) peaks of systolic velocity, MAP and serum PlGF. The values of PSV ratio, MAP and PlGF were converted to multiples of the median (MoM) or delta values, and the median MoM or delta of these variables in the SGA, FGR, PE and GH groups were compared with those in the unaffected group. Regression analysis was used to examine the relationship of PSV ratio delta, PlGF MoM and MAP MoM with birth-weight Z-score after exclusion of PE and GH cases. Regression analysis was also used to examine the association of PSV ratio delta with log₁₀ PlGF MoM and log₁₀ MAP MoM.

RESULTS

The study population included 2287 pregnancies, of which 1954 (85.4%) were not affected by FGR, SGA, PE or GH, 49 (2.1%) were complicated by FGR in the absence of PE or GH, 160 (7.0%) had SGA in the absence of FGR, PE or GH, 60 (2.6%) had PE and 64 (2.8%) had GH. Compared with unaffected pregnancies, in both the FGR and SGA groups, the means of PSV ratio delta (0.042 (95% CI, 0.007-0.076) and 0.032 (95% CI, 0.016-0.049), respectively) and MAP MoM (1.028 (95% CI, 1.006-1.050) and 1.048 (95% CI, 1.035-1.060), respectively) were increased, while the mean of PlGF MoM was decreased (0.495 (95% CI, 0.393-0.622) and 0.648 (95% CI, 0.562-0.747), respectively). However, the magnitude of these changes was smaller than in the PE and GH groups. Ophthalmic artery waveform analysis revealed that the predominant feature of pregnancies complicated by SGA in the absence of hypertensive disorders was a reduction in PSV1, whereas, in those with hypertensive disorders, there was an increase in PSV2. In non-hypertensive pregnancies, there were linear inverse associations of PSV ratio delta and MAP MoM with birth-weight Z-score, with increased values in small neonates and decreased values in large neonates. There was a quadratic relationship between PlGF MoM and birth-weight Z-score, with low PlGF levels in small neonates and high PlGF levels in large neonates. There was a significant correlation of ophthalmic artery PSV ratio delta with both log₁₀ MAP MoM (0.124 (95% CI, 0.069-0.178)) and log₁₀ PlGF MoM (-0.238 (95% CI, -0.289 to -0.185)).

CONCLUSION

Assuming that the ophthalmic artery PSV ratio is a reflection of the interplay between cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance, the linear association between PSV ratio and birth-weight Z-score in non-hypertensive pregnancies suggests the presence of a continuous physiological relationship between fetal size and cardiovascular response rather than a dichotomous relationship between high peripheral resistance and low cardiac output in small compared with non-small fetuses. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Arterial stiffness increase from adolescence to young adulthood is accelerated by smoking and alcohol use

Background

Smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol are associated with increased arterial stiffness, a critical intermediate endpoint for cardiovascular disease, in adults and in teenagers. The relationship between these risky behaviours and changes in arterial stiffness from late adolescence to early adulthood is not known.

Purpose

To investigate associations between smoking and drinking habits and the change in arterial stiffness between ages 17 and 24 using a large population-based cohort.

Methods

Participants underwent repeated measurements of arterial stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV)), anthropometrics, resting blood pressure and blood biomarkers, at ages 17 and 24 years. Participants were grouped and scored by alcohol (never, medium intensity (MI): ≤4 drinks on a typical day of drinking, high intensity (HI): &gt;5) and smoking (never, past, MI, &lt;10 cigarettes a day HI, ≥10) exposure at both clinics. Average scores between clinics were taken (scores 0–5) and composite alcohol (never, MI, HI) and smoking (never, past, MI, HI) groups were created. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to investigate associations between smoking/drinking habits and change in cfPWV from 17 to 24 years (ΔPWV). Associations were adjusted for age, gender, and socioeconomic status (model 1). Model 2 was additionally adjusted for body mass index, systolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, glucose, and C-reactive protein at age 24. Data are presented as means (95% confidence intervals).

Results

1,655 participants (1,013 females and 642 males) had cfPWV recorded at both ages. cfPWV increased from 17 to 24 years in both women (ΔPWV 0.56m/s (0.50, 0.62), p&lt;0.001) and men (0.65m/s (0.56, 0.74), p&lt;0.001). There was a 0.05m/s (0.00, 0.10) increase in ΔPWV per 1 unit increase in average alcohol score (p=0.039). Compared to never drinkers, ΔPWV increased by 0.18m/s (−0.03, 0.38) in MI (p=0.09), and 0.21m/s (−0.01, 0.41) in HI drinkers (p=0.055). There was no association between ΔPWV and average smoking score (β=0.03m/s (−0.03, 0.08), p=0.4). Compared to never smokers, HI smokers had a slightly greater ΔPWV (0.17m/s (−0.08, 0.42), p=0.18). After stratifying by sex, this difference was evident in women (0.32m/s (0.04, 0.60), p=0.028) while no association was seen in men (−0.12m/s (−0.59, 0.35), p=0.6). No differences were found between never-smokers and ex-smokers (difference = 0.04m/s (−0.08, 0.16), p=0.5). Adjustment for potential confounders (model 2) did not attenuate these associations. Figure shows estimated marginal means for ΔPWV between (a) alcohol and (b) smoking groups from model 1. Error bars represent 95% confidence intervals.

Conclusion

Smoking and alcohol use in young adulthood is associated with an accelerated increase in arterial stiffness, with evidence of a graded adverse association for alcohol. Our findings also suggest that adverse effects of smoking in youth may be reversible with smoking cessation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): British Heart Foundation

Three-dimensional echocardiography and cardiac strain imaging in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with premature cardiovascular disease and adverse cardiovascular outcome in the mother. Subclinical cardiac functional changes in the left ventricle have been reported during pregnancy in women with GDM using conventional echocardiography, but results are inconsistent. The aims of the current study were to assess whether GDM is associated with biventricular systolic dysfunction in the mother and whether these cardiac changes can be detected using the novel echocardiographic modalities of strain imaging and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study in women with GDM and controls examined at 26-40 weeks of gestation. All women underwent echocardiography, and 3D volumes of the left and right ventricles and left atrium were collected. Ejection fraction and left ventricular mass were measured using 3D echocardiography. Left ventricular mass was indexed to body surface area. Speckle-tracking echocardiography was used to assess global longitudinal strain of the left and right ventricles and strain of the left atrium.

RESULTS

The study population included 123 women with GDM and 246 controls. Women with GDM, compared to controls, were older (35.1 ± 5.2 vs 32.4 ± 5.5 years; P < 0.001), had higher body mass index (30.6 (interquartile range (IQR), 26.2-35.2) vs 27.5 (IQR, 24.7-30.7) kg/m² ; P < 0.001) and had higher systolic blood pressure (119.9 ± 11.2 vs 116.4 ± 12.0 mmHg; P = 0.007). In all women with GDM, there was good glycemic control. In women with GDM, compared to controls, there was lower global longitudinal strain of the left ventricle (-19.3% (IQR, -21.4 to -17.6%) vs -20.1% (IQR, -22.1 to -18.7%); P = 0.002) and right ventricle (-22.2% (IQR, -26.1 to -19.8%) vs -24.1% (IQR, -27.0 to -21.9%); P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups in ejection fraction, left ventricular mass, diastolic function assessed by left atrial strain, or 3D functional indices.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with GDM, compared to women with uncomplicated pregnancy, have lower left and right ventricular myocardial deformation. Volumetric assessment using 3D echocardiography does not provide additional information about maternal cardiac function. Strain imaging is a sensitive echocardiographic modality to detect early cardiac functional changes in women with GDM. Further studies are needed to assess the pattern of deterioration of cardiac function with advancing age in women with a history of GDM. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Maternal cardiac function at 19-23 weeks' gestation in prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

To examine differences in maternal cardiovascular indices at 19-23 weeks' gestation between pregnancies that develop gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and those without GDM, and to determine whether such cardiovascular changes are the consequence of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history or GDM per se.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, and maternal echocardiography for assessment of E/A ratio, E/e' ratio, myocardial performance index, global longitudinal systolic strain, left ventricular ejection fraction, peripheral vascular resistance, left ventricular cardiac output and left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area. The measurements of the maternal cardiac indices were standardized to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and elements from the medical history, and the adjusted values in the GDM group were compared to those in the non-GDM group. Likelihood ratios were derived for those indices that were altered significantly in GDM, and these were used to modify the prior risk derived from maternal demographic characteristics and medical history. The area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve and the detection rate of GDM, at 10%, 20% and 40% false-positive rates, in screening by a combination of maternal factors with cardiovascular indices were determined.

RESULTS

The study population of 2853 pregnancies contained 199 (7.0%) that developed GDM. In pregnancies that developed GDM, there were significant differences from the non-GDM group in E/A ratio, E/e' ratio, myocardial performance index and global longitudinal systolic strain. After adjustment for maternal demographic characteristics and factors from the medical history known to affect cardiac indices, the only cardiovascular indices that were significantly different between the GDM and non-GDM groups were peripheral vascular resistance and myocardial performance index, both of which were marginally increased in the GDM group. The performance of screening for GDM by maternal demographic characteristics and medical history was not improved by the addition of cardiovascular indices.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with GDM have subtle functional and hemodynamic cardiac changes prior to the development of GDM. These cardiac changes are mostly related to the adverse risk-factor profile of these women. Maternal cardiac assessment at 20 weeks does not offer additional predictive information for GDM development in pregnancy to that calculated based on demographic characteristics and medical history. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Maternal cardiac function at 19-23 weeks' gestation in prediction of pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVES

First, to examine the factors from maternal characteristics and medical history that affect maternal cardiovascular indices, and, second, to examine the potential value of maternal cardiovascular indices at 19-23 weeks' gestation, on their own and in combination with maternal factors and the established biomarkers of pre-eclampsia (PE), including uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), in the prediction of subsequent development of PE.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, assessment of maternal E/A ratio, E/e' ratio, myocardial performance index, global longitudinal systolic strain, left ventricular ejection fraction, peripheral vascular resistance, left ventricular cardiac output and left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area, and measurement of MAP, UtA-PI, serum PlGF and serum sFlt-1. The measurements of the eight maternal cardiac indices were standardized to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and elements from the medical history. The competing-risks model was used to estimate the individual patient-specific risks of delivery with PE and determine the detection rate, at a 10% false-positive rate, in screening by a combination of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history with biomarkers.

RESULTS

The study population of 2853 pregnancies contained 76 (2.7%) that developed PE. In pregnancies that subsequently developed PE, there was evidence of altered cardiac geometry, impaired myocardial function and increased peripheral vascular resistance. All maternal cardiovascular indices were affected significantly by maternal demographic characteristics and elements of medical history known to be associated with an increased risk for subsequent development of PE. After adjustment for maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, the only cardiovascular index that was affected significantly by subsequent development of PE was peripheral vascular resistance. Peripheral vascular resistance multiples of the median (MoM) was correlated with MAP MoM, which is not surprising because blood pressure is involved in the estimation of both. There were weak correlations between several cardiovascular indices and MAP MoM, but none was correlated with MoM values of UtA-PI, PlGF or sFlt-1. The performance of screening for delivery with PE at < 37 weeks' gestation or delivery with PE at any gestational age in screening by maternal demographic characteristics and medical history or combinations of maternal factors with MAP, UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1 was not improved by the addition of peripheral vascular resistance.

CONCLUSION

Assessment of maternal cardiovascular function provides information on the pathophysiology of PE but is not useful in the prediction of PE. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Relationship between ophthalmic artery Doppler and maternal cardiovascular function

OBJECTIVE

In mid-gestation, the finding of an increase in the ophthalmic artery second to first peak of systolic velocity ratio (PSV ratio) provides useful prediction of subsequent development of pre-eclampsia (PE). The objective of this study of an unselected population at 19-23 weeks' gestation was to gain a better understanding of the factors that influence ophthalmic artery Doppler by examining the possible association between the PSV ratio and maternal cardiovascular function.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries and assessment of maternal cardiovascular function. The following nine cardiovascular indices were examined: E/A ratio; E/e' ratio; myocardial performance index; global longitudinal systolic strain; left ventricular ejection fraction; peripheral vascular resistance; left ventricular cardiac output; left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area; and mean arterial pressure. The ophthalmic artery PSV ratio and the nine cardiovascular indices were converted to either log₁₀ multiples of the median (MoM) values or deviations from the median (deltas) values after adjustment for maternal characteristics and elements of medical history. Regression analysis was then used to examine the significance of the association between PSV ratio delta and MoM or delta values of each cardiovascular index in the total population and in the subgroup that developed PE.

RESULTS

The study population of 2853 pregnancies contained 76 (2.7%) that developed PE. In the total population, there were significant but weak associations between the PSV ratio and most of the cardiovascular indices, with r-values of < 0.1, except for mean arterial pressure with r = 0.178. In the subgroup that developed PE, a moderately strong association between the PSV ratio and left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area was noted (r = 0.308).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest that Doppler assessment of PSV ratio in the ophthalmic artery provides information about peripheral vascular status. The increase in PSV ratio in women who develop PE is associated with increased afterload and an increase in left ventricular thickness. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler in combination with other biomarkers in prediction of pre-eclampsia at 35-37 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVE

To examine the potential value of maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 35-37 weeks' gestation in combination with the established biomarkers of pre-eclampsia (PE), including mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), in the prediction of subsequent development of PE.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination for fetal anatomy and growth, assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries, and measurement of MAP, UtA-PI, serum PlGF and serum sFlt-1. The competing-risks model was used to estimate the individual patient-specific risks of delivery with PE at any time and at < 3 weeks after assessment by a combination of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history with biomarkers. The area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve and detection rate (DR) of delivery with PE, at a 10% false-positive rate (FPR), in screening by combinations of maternal factors with ophthalmic artery second to first peak of systolic velocity ratio (PSV ratio), MAP, UtA-PI, serum PlGF and serum sFlt-1 were determined. The modeled performance of screening for PE was also estimated.

RESULTS

The study population of 2287 pregnancies contained 60 (2.6%) that developed PE, including 19 (0.8%) that delivered with PE at < 3 weeks after assessment. The PSV ratio improved the prediction of PE with delivery at any stage after assessment provided by maternal factors alone (from 25.4% to 50.6%), maternal factors and MAP (54.3% to 62.7%), maternal factors, MAP and PlGF (68.3% to 70.8%) and maternal factors, MAP, PlGF and sFlt-1 (75.7% to 76.7%), at a FPR of 10%. The PSV ratio also improved the prediction of PE with delivery at < 3 weeks after assessment provided by maternal factors alone (from 31.0% to 69.4%), maternal factors and MAP (74.1% to 83.4%), maternal factors, MAP and UtA-PI (77.1% to 85.0%) and maternal factors, MAP and PlGF (84.8% to 88.6%). The empirical results for DR at a 10% FPR were consistent with the modeled results. Screening by a combination of maternal factors with MAP and PSV ratio also detected 59.4% (95% CI, 58.6-82.5%) of cases of gestational hypertension with delivery at any stage after assessment, and 86.7% (95% CI, 82.4-100%) of those with delivery at < 3 weeks after assessment.

CONCLUSION

Ophthalmic artery Doppler could potentially improve the performance of screening for PE at 35-37 weeks, especially imminent PE with delivery within 3 weeks after assessment, but further studies are needed to validate this finding. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on fetal cardiac morphology and function: cohort comparison of second- and third-trimester fetuses

OBJECTIVES

To assess differences in cardiac morphology and function in fetuses of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared to controls, and to assess whether, in women with GDM, fetal cardiac changes are accentuated with advancing gestational age.

METHODS

We studied 112 women with GDM and 224 women with uncomplicated pregnancy at 24-40 weeks' gestation. In all fetuses, a standard four-chamber oblique view was obtained and offline speckle-tracking analysis was performed to measure right and left endocardial global longitudinal strain (GLS) and tricuspid and mitral annular plane systolic excursion. Global sphericity index was also calculated. Echocardiographic parameters were compared between GDM fetuses and controls at two gestational time periods of 24 + 0 to 32 + 0 weeks and 32 + 1 to 40 + 1 weeks.

RESULTS

At 24 + 0 to 32 + 0 weeks, we phenotyped 43 fetuses from mothers with GDM and 71 from uncomplicated pregnancies, and, at 32 + 1 to 40 + 1 weeks, we phenotyped 69 fetuses from mothers with GDM and 153 from women with uncomplicated pregnancy. In fetuses of mothers with GDM, compared to controls, right ventricular functional indices were consistently lower both at 24 + 0 to 32 + 0 weeks and at 32 + 1 to 40 + 1 weeks. Right ventricular GLS was reduced in the GDM group at 24 + 0 to 32 + 0 weeks (adjusted mean difference, 0.7%; 95% CI, 0.3-1.1%) and at 32 + 1 to 40 + 1 weeks (adjusted mean difference, 0.9%; 95% CI, 0.6-1.1%). Fetal left ventricular global longitudinal function was similar in GDM pregnancies compared with controls, with the exception of the contractility of the left ventricular basal segment, which was reduced. Global sphericity index was reduced in GDM pregnancies only at 32 + 1 to 40 + 1 weeks (adjusted mean difference, -0.4; 95% CI, -0.7 to 0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

The offspring of women with GDM are at high risk for development of cardiovascular disease in childhood and early adulthood. Our study demonstrates that GDM is associated with a reduction mainly in fetal right ventricular function, compared to controls, and this response is not exaggerated with increasing gestational age. Further studies are needed to determine whether fetuses with the observed alterations in cardiac function are those at highest risk for subsequent development of cardiovascular disease. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Fetal cardiac function at 35-37 weeks' gestation in pregnancies that subsequently develop pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To compare fetal cardiac morphology and function between pregnancies that subsequently developed pre-eclampsia (PE) and those that remained normotensive.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in 1574 pregnancies at 35-37 weeks' gestation, including 76 that subsequently developed PE. We carried out comprehensive assessment of fetal cardiac morphology and function including novel imaging modalities, such as speckle-tracking echocardiography, and measured uterine artery pulsatility index, mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and cerebroplacental ratio (CPR). The findings in the group that subsequently developed PE were compared to those in pregnancies that remained normotensive.

RESULTS

In fetuses of mothers who subsequently developed PE, compared to those from normotensive pregnancies, there was a more globular right ventricle, as shown by reduced right ventricular sphericity index, reduced right ventricular systolic contractility, as shown by reduced global longitudinal strain, and reduced left ventricular diastolic function, as shown by increased E/A ratio. On multivariable regression analysis, these indices demonstrated an association with PE, independent of maternal characteristics and fetal size. In pregnancies that subsequently developed PE, compared to those that remained normotensive, MAP, sFlt-1 and the incidence of low birth weight were higher, whereas serum PlGF, CPR and the interval between assessment and delivery were lower. These findings demonstrate that, in pregnancies that develop PE, there is evidence of impaired placentation, reflected in low PlGF and reduced birth weight, placental ischemia, evidenced by increased sFlt-1 which becomes apparent in the interval of 2-4 weeks preceding the clinical onset of PE, and consequent fetal hypoxia-induced redistribution in the fetal circulation, reflected in the low CPR.

CONCLUSION

Although the etiology of the observed fetal cardiac changes in pregnancies that subsequently develop PE remains unclear, it is possible that the reduction in right-heart systolic function is the consequence of high afterload due to increased placental resistance, whilst the early left ventricular diastolic changes could be due to fetal hypoxia-induced redistribution in the fetal circulation. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Influence of birth weight on fetal cardiac indices at 35-37 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVE

Echocardiographic studies have reported that fetuses with low birth weight, compared to those with normal birth weight, have globular hearts and reduced cardiac function. Dichotomizing continuous variables, such as birth weight, may be helpful in describing pathology in small studies but can prevent us from identifying physiological responses in relation to change in size. The aim of this study was to explore associations between fetal cardiac morphology and function and birth weight, as a continuous variable, as well as uterine artery (UtA) pulsatility index (PI), as an indirect measure of placental perfusion, and the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR), as an indirect measure of fetal oxygenation.

METHODS

This was a prospective study of 1498 women with singleton pregnancy undergoing routine ultrasound examination at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. Pregnancies complicated by pregestational or gestational diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension, pregnancy-induced hypertension or pre-eclampsia were excluded from the analysis. Conventional and more advanced echocardiographic modalities, such as speckle tracking, were used to assess fetal cardiac function in the right and left ventricles. The morphology of the fetal heart was assessed by calculating the right and left sphericity indices. In addition, the PI of the UtA, umbilical artery (UA) and fetal middle cerebral artery (MCA) was determined and the CPR was calculated by dividing MCA-PI by UA-PI. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess determinants of fetal echocardiographic parameters.

RESULTS

The study population included 146 (9.7%) small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses with birth weight < 10^th percentile and 68 (4.5%) with fetal growth restriction (FGR). In the SGA and FGR groups, compared to the non-SGA and non-FGR fetuses, respectively, there was a more globular right ventricle and reduced left and right ventricular systolic function, and, from the left ventricular diastolic functional indices, the E/A ratio was increased. There was a linear association of right ventricular sphericity index, indices of left and right ventricular systolic function and E/A ratio with birth-weight Z-score. There were no significant associations between cardiac morphological and functional indices and UtA-PI Z-score or CPR Z-score.

CONCLUSIONS

This screening study at 35-37 weeks' gestation has demonstrated that birth weight is a determinant of fetal cardiac morphology and function but UtA-PI and CPR, as indirect measures of placental perfusion and fetal oxygenation, are not. This suggests that the differences in fetal cardiac indices between small and appropriately grown fetuses may be part of a normal physiological response to change in fetal size rather than part of a pathological adaptation to abnormal placental perfusion and fetal oxygenation. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler in combination with other biomarkers in prediction of pre-eclampsia at 19-23 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVE

To examine the potential value of maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 19-23 weeks' gestation on its own and in combination with the established biomarkers of pre-eclampsia (PE), including uterine artery (UtA) pulsatility index (PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), in the prediction of subsequent development of PE.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women attending for a routine hospital visit at 19 + 1 to 23 + 3 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination for fetal anatomy and growth, assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries, and measurement of MAP, UtA-PI, serum PlGF and serum sFlt-1. Waveforms were obtained from the ophthalmic arteries in sequence from the right eye, left eye and again from the right and then left eye. We recorded the average of the four measurements, two from each eye, for the following four indices: first peak of systolic velocity; second peak of systolic velocity; PI; and the ratio of the second to first peak of systolic velocity (PSV ratio). The measurements of the four indices were standardized to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and elements from the medical history. The competing-risks model was used to estimate the individual patient-specific risks of delivery with PE at < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks' gestation and to determine the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC) and detection rate (DR), at a 10% false-positive rate (FPR), in screening by a combination of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history with biomarkers. The modeled performance of screening for PE was also estimated.

RESULTS

The study population of 2853 pregnancies contained 76 (2.7%) that developed PE, including 18 (0.6%) that delivered with PE at < 37 weeks' gestation. The ophthalmic artery PSV ratio was significantly increased in PE pregnancies, and the PE effect depended on gestational age at delivery; the deviation from normal was greater for early than late PE. The second peak of systolic velocity was also increased in PE pregnancies, but the effect did not depend on gestational age at delivery. The other two ophthalmic artery indices of first peak of systolic velocity and PI were not significantly affected by PE. The PSV ratio improved the prediction of preterm PE provided by maternal factors alone (from 56.1% to 80.2%), maternal factors, MAP and UtA-PI (80.7% to 87.9%), maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI and PlGF (85.5% to 90.3%) and maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1 (84.9% to 89.8%), at a FPR of 10%. The PSV ratio also improved the prediction of term PE provided by maternal factors alone (from 33.8% to 46.0%), maternal factors, MAP and UtA-PI (46.6% to 54.2%), maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI and PlGF (45.2% to 53.4%) and maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI, PlGF and sFlt-1 (43.0% to 51.2%), at a FPR of 10%. The empirical results for DR at a 10% FPR were consistent with the modeled results. The second peak of systolic velocity did not improve the prediction of either preterm or term PE provided by maternal factors alone.

CONCLUSION

Ophthalmic artery PSV ratio at 19-23 weeks' gestation, both on its own and in combination with other biomarkers, is potentially useful for prediction of subsequent development of PE, especially preterm PE, but larger studies are needed to validate this finding. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Impact of prospective measurement of outflow tracts in prediction of coarctation of the aorta

OBJECTIVES

Prenatal diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is associated with reduced mortality and morbidity, however, accurate prenatal prediction remains challenging. To date, studies have used retrospective measurements of the outflow tracts to evaluate their potential to predict CoA. Our primary objective was to evaluate prospectively acquired measurements of the outflow tracts in fetuses with prenatally suspected CoA. A secondary aim was to report the postnatal prevalence of bicuspid aortic valve in this cohort.

METHODS

Pregnancies with suspicion of isolated CoA and with a minimum of 6 months' postnatal follow-up available were identified from the cardiac database of a tertiary fetal cardiology center in the UK, between January 2002 and December 2017. Measurement of the aortic valve, pulmonary valve, distal transverse aortic arch (DTAA) and arterial duct (AD) diameters were undertaken routinely in fetuses with suspected CoA during the study period. Z-scores were computed using published reference ranges based on > 7000 fetuses from our own unit.

RESULTS

Of 149 pregnancies with prenatally suspected CoA included in the study, CoA was confirmed within 6 months after birth in 77/149 (51.7%) cases. DTAA diameter Z-score and the Z-score of second-trimester DTAA/AD diameter ratio were smaller in fetuses with postnatally confirmed CoA than those in false-positive cases (-2.8 vs -1.9; P = 0.039 and -3.13 vs -2.61; P = 0.005, respectively). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the Z-scores of DTAA and AD diameters were the only significant predictors of postnatal CoA (P = 0.001). Bicuspid aortic valve was identified in 30% of the false-positive cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of DTAA and AD diameter Z-scores can be used to ascertain risk for postnatal CoA in a selected cohort. The high incidence of bicuspid aortic valve in false-positive cases merits further study with respect to both etiology and longer-term significance. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Ophthalmic artery Doppler in prediction of pre-eclampsia at 35-37 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVES

First, to examine the potential value of maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 35-37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of subsequent development of pre-eclampsia (PE), and, second, to examine the variability between repeat measurements in the same eye and variability in measurements between the two eyes.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. The visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history and assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic artery. Waveforms were obtained in sequence from the right eye, left eye and again from the right and then left eye. We recorded the average of the four measurements, two from each eye, for the following four indices: first peak of systolic velocity; second peak of systolic velocity; pulsatility index; and the ratio of the second to first peak of systolic velocity (PSV ratio). The measurements of the four indices were standardized to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and elements from the medical history. The competing-risks model was used to determine the detection rate (DR) of delivery with PE at any time and at < 3 weeks after assessment, at a 10% false-positive rate (FPR), in screening by maternal factors alone and a combination of maternal factors and the adjusted value of each of the four ophthalmic artery indices.

RESULTS

The study population of 2287 pregnancies contained 60 (2.6%) that developed PE, including 19 (0.8%) that delivered with PE at < 3 weeks after assessment. The DR, at 10% FPR, of delivery with PE at any time after assessment by maternal factors was 25.0% (95% CI, 14.7-37.9%), and this increased by 25 percentage points to 50.0% (95% CI, 36.8-63.2%) with the addition of the adjusted PSV ratio (P = 0.005); the respective values for delivery with PE at < 3 weeks after assessment were 31.6% (95% CI, 12.6-56.6%) and 57.9% (95% CI, 33.5-79.8%). The other ophthalmic artery indices did not improve the prediction provided by maternal factors alone. There was good correlation between the first and second measurements of PSV ratio from the same eye (right eye r = 0.823, left eye r = 0.840), but poorer correlation in the first and second measurements between the two eyes (first measurement r = 0.690, second measurement r = 0.682). In screening by maternal factors and PSV ratio for PE with delivery at any stage after assessment, the estimated DR, at 10% FPR, was 50.0% when the average of four measurements was used (two from each eye), 49.1% when the average of one measurement from each eye was used, 47.3% when the average of two measurements from the same eye was used, and 45.8% when only one measurement was used.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmic artery PSV ratio at 35-37 weeks' gestation can predict subsequent delivery with PE, especially if this occurs within 3 weeks after assessment. In the assessment of ophthalmic artery Doppler, it is necessary to use the average of one measurement from each eye to minimize variability of measurements. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Cardiac function in gestational diabetes mellitus: A longitudinal study from fetal life to infancy

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether cardiac functional and structural changes in fetuses of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) persist in the offspring beyond the neonatal period.

DESIGN

Longitudinal study.

SETTING

Fetal Medicine Unit in a UK teaching hospital.

METHODS

73 women with GDM and 73 women with uncomplicated pregnancy were recruited and fetal cardiac scans were performed at 35-36 weeks' gestation. Repeat echocardiogram was performed in their offspring during infancy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fetal and infant cardiac functional and structural changes.

RESULTS

Fetuses of mothers with GDM, compared with controls, had more globular right ventricles (sphericity index 0.7, interquartile range [IQR] 0.6/0.7 versus 0.6, IQR 0.5/0.6, P < 0.001) and reduced right global longitudinal systolic strain (-16.4, IQR -18.9/-15.3 versus -18.5, IQR -20.6/-16.8, P = 0.001) and left global longitudinal systolic strain (-20.1, IQR -22.5/-16.9 versus -21.3, IQR -23.5/-19.5), P = 0.021). In the GDM group, compared with controls, in infancy there was higher left ventricular E/e' (8.7, IQR 7.3/9.7 versus 7.9 IQR, 6.8/8.9 P = 0.011) and lower left ventricular global longitudinal systolic strain (-21.0, IQR -22.5/-19.4 versus -22.3, IQR -23.5/-20.7, P = 0.001) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (13.8, IQR 12.7/16.1 versus 15.2, IQR 13.8/16.8, P = 0.003). These differences remained following multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSION

Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with alterations in fetal cardiac function and structure compared with controls and persistent cardiac changes in infancy.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Gestational diabetes mellitus, even when well controlled, is associated with fetal cardiac changes and these persist in infancy.

Maternal cardiac function in gestational diabetes mellitus at 35-36 weeks' gestation and 6 months postpartum

OBJECTIVE

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at increased risk for adverse cardiovascular outcome later in life. However, it is uncertain whether this increased risk is due to cardiovascular changes occurring during pregnancy and persisting thereafter or to an adverse underlying cardiovascular risk factor profile. Some studies have reported that GDM is associated with reduced systolic and diastolic left ventricular function in pregnancy; however, it remains unknown whether these changes persist after delivery. The objective of this study was to compare cardiac function and structure in women with GDM and those with uncomplicated pregnancy at 35-36 weeks' gestation and about 6 months after delivery.

METHODS

This was a longitudinal study in which women with GDM and those with uncomplicated pregnancy had detailed cardiovascular assessment at 35-36 weeks' gestation and repeat examination around 6 months after delivery. In all women, left ventricular systolic and diastolic indices were measured and left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area was calculated. Cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance were also calculated using echocardiography. Linear mixed model analysis accounting for differences in maternal characteristics was carried out to compare findings of cardiovascular function between the GDM group and controls and within each group at 35-36 weeks' gestation and at 6 months after delivery.

RESULTS

We studied 73 women with GDM and 73 controls with uncomplicated pregnancy. At 35-36 weeks' gestation, women with GDM, compared to controls, had higher E/e' ratio and lower E/A ratio and global longitudinal systolic strain; there were no significant differences between the groups in ejection fraction. Left ventricular mass indexed for body surface area was also increased in women with GDM. There were no significant differences between the groups in cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance. At 6 months after delivery, cardiac functional indices improved in both patients with GDM and controls, but in the GDM group, compared to controls, there was a lower degree of improvement in E/A ratio and global longitudinal systolic strain.

CONCLUSION

In the third trimester, patients with GDM have subtle differences in diastolic and systolic left ventricular function compared to controls and, despite improvement after delivery, these changes persist for at least 6 months. Long-term follow-up is therefore needed to assess whether women with GDM are at risk for an accelerated decline in their cardiac function and, if so, whether this trend can be reversed or delayed by optimal cardiovascular risk factor modification. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of a lotion containing triethyl citrate and ethyl linoleate in the treatment of acne vulgaris

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris is a major clinical problem; despite a vast array of treatment modalities available for acne, there is considerable dissatisfaction in acne treatment among patients and doctors. Rising antibiotic drug resistance consequent to the widespread use of topical antibiotics is causing concern and effective nonantibiotic treatments are needed.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a novel lotion containing triethyl citrate and ethyl linoleate in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

METHODS

This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study comparing the active lotion containing triethyl citrate and ethyl linoleate with its vehicle as a placebo control. Patients were assessed by the modified Leeds acne grading system as well as by counting inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions on the face at weeks 0, 4, 8 and 12. Sebum production was assessed by the Sebutape method at weeks 0 and 12. All adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

Forty patients were recruited into the study, of whom 33 completed the study. Active treatment was statistically superior to placebo in reduction of Leeds grading and total, inflammatory and noninflammatory lesion counts. The active lotion showed a rapid response with obvious reduction in lesion counts and acne grading by 4 weeks. Sebum production was significantly reduced in the actively treated group, with a mean reduction of 53% in sebum production compared with baseline. One patient developed irritation to the active lotion and withdrew from the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The new lotion containing triethyl citrate and ethyl linoleate has been shown to be an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne, with an effect on both inflammatory and noninflammatory acne lesions. The new lotion worked quickly and was generally well tolerated. A surprising finding was the significant impact the new lotion has on sebum production, suggesting a role in patients with seborrhoea. This nonantibiotic preparation will be a very useful addition to existing treatments for acne.

Calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate for the treatment of psoriasis

The two-compound product calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate is arising as a first-line treatment for mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. Its beneficial action is attributed to the synergistic effect of its components on keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, and on inflammation. The good tolerability of the two-compound product is thought to be due to the anti-inflammatory effect of betamethasone. Evidence from short-term (4-12 weeks) and long-term use (> 1 year) has shown a good safety profile. Areas such as the face or skin folds, which are sensitive to the components of the combination, should be avoided. Finally, it is unsuitable for use in unstable psoriasis, in which potent steroids may lead to an increased inflammatory response.

Endothelial function and inflammation in coronary artery disease

Evidence supports the central role of endothelium and inflammation in all phases of the atherosclerotic process. Clinical studies have shown their prognostic potential for the development of ischaemic events and for adverse outcome after acute coronary syndromes. Reduction in inflammatory levels and improving endothelial function by traditional and novel treatment strategies were associated with a proportional reduction in cardiovascular events. However, randomised controlled trials are required to explore further whether drugs targeting the inflammatory process and endothelial function will constitute a reasonable adjunctive treatment for patients with coronary artery disease.