ABSTRACT
To compare preterm small for gestational age [Intrauterine growth retardation] and preterm appropriate for gestational age on postnatal morbidity and mortality. This prospective study was conducted in Queen Alia hospital between June 2004 till end of March 2005 of total 100 premature infant [gestational age between 28-36 weeks], 50 premature small for gestational age [SGA] were match with 50 premature appropriate for gestational age [AGA] of same gestation and morbidity and mortality were recorded. There were no differences between the two groups regarding the characteristics except for finding of prolonged rupture of membrane. There was significantly higher proportion of SGA compared with AGA infant with 1-minute apgar score of 3 or less [31% and 15% respectively]. Hypogycemia was seen in 34% and 27% of SGA and AGA infants respectively. Hypotension occurred in 30% of SGA compared with 20% AGA. There was no difference in the frequency of respiratory distress syndrome, mechanical ventilation, infection or rate of congenital malformation. There was significantly higher mortality rate in SGA group [52%] compared with 28% for AGA. SGA had longer mean duration of stay of 54 days compared with 41 days in AGA. The higher mortality rate seen in SGA infants, appear to be due to poorer condition at birth. There is no evidence that SGA infants have more mature lung