Expression levels and clinical significance of autophagy related proteins in placenta tissues of pregnant women with fetal growth restriction / 基础医学与临床

Objective To explore the expression and clinical significance of autophagy related proteins Beclin-1,microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3(LC3)in placenta tissues of pregnant women with fetal growth restric-tion(FGR).Methods A total of 40 pregnant women undergoing delivery due to FGR and 40 pregnant women un-dergoing normal delivery in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University were enrolled as FGR group and healthy group between August 2022 and August 2023.The general clinical data in the two groups were collected.The levels of Beclin-1 and LC3 mRNA in placenta tissues were detected by PCR,and expressions of Beclin-1 and LC3 proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry.The differences in positive of Beclin-1 and LC3 proteins among patients with different clinical data were analyzed.Results The placental thickness,placental mass and neonatal weight in FGR group were lower than those in healthy group(P＜0.05).The mRNA levels of Beclin-1 and LC3 in FGR group were higher than those in healthy group(P＜0.05)and positive expression rates of Beclin-1 and LC3 proteins were significantly higher than those in healthy group(P＜0.05).There was significant difference in positive expression profile of Beclin-1 and LC3 proteins among patients with different placental thickness,placental mass and neonatal weight(P＜0.05).Conclusions The positive expressions of autophagy genes(Beclin-1 and LC3)are related to FGR,and their specific expression levels are closely related to fetal growth and development.

Clinical application status and research progress in fetal growth standards / 复旦学报（医学版）

Ultrasound measurement of fetal biological parameters is an important indicator for evaluating fetal intrauterine growth and development,and its corresponding fetal growth standards are important criteria for determining whether the measurement parameters are normal or have fetal growth restriction.There are classic regional standards of prenatal ultrasonic measurement that have been used for many years,as well as international standards that have received widespread attention in recent years.However,there is no unified global standard.This paper reviewed the development process and clinical application status of fetal growth standards,explore future research trends,with a view to providing reference value for clinical practice.

The Role of Cerebral-Placenta-Uterine Ratio in Predicting Late-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction / 实用妇产科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of cerebral-placental-uterine ratio(CPUR)in predicting late-on-set fetal growth restriction(FGR).Methods:From May 2020 to May 2021,1255 women with singleton pregnancy who underwent prenatal examinations at the University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital were selected for fetal growth and Doppler measurements at 35-37 +6 weeks of gestation.Pregnant women with birth weight of newbo-rns＜the 10th percentile were the FGR group.The pulsatility index(PI)of uterine artery(UtA),umbilical artery(UA)and fetal middle cerebral artery(MCA)were analyzed separately and in combination.ROC curve was used to analyze the cerebral-placental-uterine ratio(CPUR),cerebral-placental ratio(CPR),cerebral-uterine ratio(C-UtA)for predicting late-onset FGR;and to evaluate the sensitivity,positive and negative predictive value and of CPUR in the prediction of late-onset FGR.Results:The area under the curve(AUC)of CPUR,CPR,C-UtA and mean UtA-PI for FGR grope were 0.88,0.86,0.84 and 0.72.Under certain cut-off values and 87% specificity,the specificity of CPUR,CPR,C-UtA and mean UtA-Pifor predicting FGR group was 43.2%,46.6%,39.8% and 23.9%,respectively.The positive predictive values of CPUR,CPR,C-UtA and mean UtA-PI,UA-PI for predicting FGR group were 90.5%,71.9%,83.3%,63.6%and 5.2%,respectively.Conclusions:CPUR is more effective in predicting late onset FGR than CPR,C-UtA and mean UtA-PI.It can effectively increase the detection rate of fetal growth restrictionand reduce the FGR risk.

The predictive value of serum hs-CRP and sFlt-1 levels for fetal growth restriction in patients with ges-tational hypertension / 现代医院

Objective To investigate the changes in the levels of serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP)and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1(sFlt-1)in hypertensive disorder of pregnancy(HDP)patients with fetal growth restriction(FGR),and to evaluate their predictive value for FGR.Methods A total of 137 HDP patients admitted to the Obstetrics De-partment of Ganzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital from December 2021 to May 2023 were selected as the study subjects.According to whether their fetuses had growth restriction,they were divided into the restricted group(n=46)and the non-re-stricted group(n=91).The general information and serum levels of hs-CRP and sFlt-1 were collected and analyzed.Multiple lo-gistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors for fetal growth restriction in HDP patients,and receiver oper-ating characteristic(ROC)curve was plotted to evaluate the predictive value of serum hs-CRP and sFlt-1 levels for fetal growth restriction in HDP patients.Results Univariate analysis showed that the serum levels of folic acid(FA),vitamin B12(VitB12),and placental growth factor(PIGF)in the restricted group were lower than those in the non-restricted group,while the serum lev-els of hs-CRP and sFlt-1 were higher than those in the non-restricted group,with statistically significant differences(P＜0.05).Multivariate analysis showed that serum hs-CRP,sFlt-1,and PIGF levels were independent risk factors for fetal growth restriction in HDP patients.The H-L test of the model showedx2=7.014,P=0.535,indicating a good fit.The area under the ROC curve(AUC)was 0.932,with a 95％CI of 0.889-0.975(P＜0.05),a sensitivity of 93.50％,and a specificity of 89.00％.Conclusion Serum hs-CRP and sFlt-1 levels are upregulated in HDP patients with fetal growth restriction,indicating their good predictive value for the occurrence of fetal growth restriction.

Ultrasound microvascular flow imaging combined with vascular endothelial growth factor for diagnosis of fetal growth restriction / 中国医学影像技术

Objective To observe the value of ultrasound microvascular flow imaging(MV-Flow)combined with maternal serum vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)expression level for diagnosis of fetal growth restriction(FGR).Methods Totally 87 pregnant women with FGR(FGR group,including 43 cases of gestational week＜28 weeks[＜28 weeks subgroup]and 44 cases of ≥28 weeks[≥28 weeks subgroup])and 112 normal pregnant women with normal fetuses(normal control group,55 with gestational week＜28 weeks[NC 1 subgroup]and 57 with ≥28 weeks[NC 2 subgroup])were prospectively enrolled.MV-Flow technology was used to measure placental microvascular index(MVI),and the placental microvascular circulation was evaluated.The expression level of maternal serum VEGF was detected simultaneously,also of placental maternal surface immediately after delivery.The receiver operating characteristic curves were drawn to explore the value of placental MVI,maternal serum VEGF and the combination of placental MVI,maternal serum VEGF for diagnosing FGR.Results The levels of placental MVI and maternal serum VEGF in 2 subgroups of FGR group were both lower than those in control group(all P＜0.01).Placental VEGF expression level in FGR group was significantly lower than that in control group(P＜0.01).The area under the curve(AUC)of placental MVI,maternal serum VEGF and their combination for diagnosing FGR＜28 weeks was 0.981,0.870 and 0.997,respectively,while for diagnosing FGR≥28 weeks was 0.991,0.867 and 0.993,respectively.AUC of maternal serum VEGF alone for diagnosing in 2 subgroups of FGR were both lower than that of placental MVI and combination of placental MVI and maternal serum VEGF(all P＜0.05),while no significant difference of AUC was found between placental MVI and combination of maternal serum VEGF and placental MVI(both P＞0.05).Conclusion Both placental MVI and maternal serum VEGF level could be used to screen FGR,and the former was more valuable.

Early motor development in small for gestational age infants at high risk of brain injury / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the characteristics of early motor development in small for gestational age (SGA) infants at high risk of brain injury.Methods:This study retrospectively enrolled a total of 81 SGA infants and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants who were at high risk of brain injury and attended outpatient follow-up visits in Xi'an Children's Hospital from February to October 2022. Seventeen SGA infants (SGA group) and 24 AGA infants (AGA group) were assessed for motor development using the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) at 2-5 weeks of corrected age (CA) and 20 SGA infants (SGA group) and 20 AGA infants (AGA group) were assessed at 14-17 weeks of CA. Independent samples t-test, rank-sum test, and Chi-square test were used to compare the demographic characteristics, high-risk factors of brain injury, and TIMP scores between the two groups. Results:At 2-5 weeks and 14-17 weeks of CA, the birth weights of SGA group were both less than those of AGA group [(1 817.1±440.3) vs. (2 630.0±560.9) g, t=－4.98; (1 752.0±434.4) vs. (2 226.3±699.8) g, t=－2.58; both P<0.05], but there were no significant differences in gestational age at birth or high-risk factors of brain injury between the two groups (all P>0.05). (1) At 2-5 weeks of CA: SGA group had lower total TIMP score [(71.6±13.7) vs. (80.5±11.5) scores, t=－2.26, P=0.029], elicited item score [61.0 scores (41.0-85.0 scores) vs. 69.1 scores (49.0-96.0 scores), Z=－2.15, P=0.037], sitting position score [8.8 scores (3.0-19.0 scores) vs. 11.2 scores (5.0-22.0 scores), Z=－2.07, P=0.038], and prone position score [(9.8±3.1) vs. (12.3±3.1) scores, t=－2.19, P=0.034] when compared with AGA group. (2) At 14-17 weeks of CA: The standing position score of the SGA group was lower than that of the AGA group [6.5 scores (4.0-11.0 scores) vs. 7.7 scores (2.0-11.0 scores), Z=－2.05, P=0.040], but no statistical difference was observed in the total TIMP score or the scores of sitting, supine, prone, turning, and lateral positions between the two groups (all P>0.05). Conclusion:Early motor performance of SGA infants is inferior to AGA infants before five months of age, which is embodied in the poor head control at 2-5 weeks of CA that further affects the stability of standing posture in them at 14-17 weeks of CA.

Recent research advancements in mechanisms underlying intrauterine brain injury in fetuses with fetal growth restriction / 中华围产医学杂志

The pathogenesis of brain injury in fetal growth restriction (FGR) fetuses is likely associated with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. This article mainly reviews the anatomical alterations, potential pathophysiological processes, and the specific molecular mechanisms involving various types of brain cells in FGR.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal hemodynamics: a longitudinal study / Efeitos do corticoide antenatal na hemodinâmica fetal: um estudo longitudinal

Abstract Objective: To study the effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration on fetal hemodynamics using longitudinal analysis of Doppler waveforms in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 30 fetuses at risk for preterm birth. Twenty-eight pregnant women were treated with betamethasone for fetal lung maturation. Doppler examinations of the UA and MCA were performed once before and three or eight times after corticosteroid administration. We used a Bayesian hierarchical linear model. Reference ranges were constructed, and associations between variables (gestational age and pre-eclampsia) were tested. Results: The mean maternal age, gestational age at betamethasone administration, and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 ± 5.89 years, 30.2 ± 2.59 weeks, and 32.9 ± 3.42 weeks, respectively. On UA Doppler, there was a significant decrease in the pulsatility index (PI) after corticosteroid administration, with a mean of 0.1147 (credibility interval: 0.03687-0.191) in three observations and a median of 0.1437 (credibility interval: 0.02509-0.2627) in eight observations. However, there was no significant change in the Doppler MCA PI, regardless of gestational age and the presence or absence of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: Although antenatal corticosteroid administration induced a significant decrease in the Doppler UA PI, we observed no change in the cerebral vasculature.

Resumo Objetivo: Estudar o efeito da administração antenatal de corticosteroides na hemodinâmica fetal mediante análise longitudinal do Doppler na artéria umbilical e artéria cerebral média (ACM). Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 30 fetos com risco de nascimento pré-termo. Vinte e oito gestantes foram tratadas com betametasona para maturação pulmonar fetal. Os exames de Doppler da AU e da ACM foram realizados uma vez antes e depois da administração de corticosteroides, num total de três ou oito observações. Utilizamos o modelo linear hierárquico com abordagem Bayesiana. Foram construídos os intervalos de referência e testadas associações entre variáveis (idade gestacional e pré-eclâmpsia). Resultados: A média ± desvio-padrão da idade materna, idade gestacional na administração de betametasona e idade gestacional no parto foram 32,6 ± 5,89 anos, 30,2 ± 2,59 semanas e 32,9 ± 3,42 semanas, respectivamente. No Doppler da AU, verificou-se diminuição significativa do índice de pulsatilidade (IP) com a terapêutica com corticosteroides (média: 0,1147 [0,03687-0,191]; em três observações) (mediana: 0,1437 [0,02509-0,2627]; em oito observações). No entanto, não foi observada alteração significativa no IP do Doppler da ACM, independentemente da idade gestacional e do diagnóstico de pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os corticosteroides pré-natais induziram diminuição significativa no IP do Doppler da AU, mas não houve alteração na vasculatura cerebral.

Evaluation of maternal serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels in fetal growth restriction and gestational hypertensive disease

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels in preeclampsia, eclampsia, gestational hypertension, and the presence of fetal growth restriction subgroups. METHODS: A total of 55 pregnant women with planned cesarean section were included in this cross-sectional study. They were divided into two groups, namely, control (25) and gestational hypertensive disease (30). The gestational hypertensive disease group was evaluated by dividing it into three subgroups (preeclampsia, eclampsia, and gestational hypertension) according to the clinical and laboratory findings of the disease and two subgroups (presence of fetal growth restriction and absence of fetal growth restriction) according to the birth weight percentile. Demographic parameters, obstetric history, physical examination findings, and laboratory values were evaluated. RESULTS: Demographic parameters and obstetric history were similar between the two groups, while gestational week of delivery was lower in the gestational hypertensive disease group (p=0.002). Laboratory parameters and serum fibroblast growth factor-23 (pg/mL) values were similar between the two groups. In the subgroup analysis for gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia, there was no statistically significant difference in serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels between gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia, and control groups. In the subgroup analysis based on the presence of fetal growth restriction, serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels were similar to the control group in the gestational hypertensive disease absence of fetal growth restriction, while serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels and serum calcium levels were statistically significantly lower in the gestational hypertensive disease with the presence of fetal growth restriction (p=0.044 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels are similar between pregnancies complicated with gestational hypertensive disease and normotensive pregnancies. However, serum fibroblast growth factor-23 levels were found to be lower in pregnancies complicated with gestational hypertensive disease with the presence of fetal growth restriction.

Associação entre as condições de nascimento e a densidade mineral óssea de adultos das coortes de nascimentos de 1982 e 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Association between birth conditions and bone mineral density in adults from the 1982 and 1993 birth cohorts in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Asociación entre las condiciones de nacimiento y la densidad mineral ósea de adultos de las cohortes de nacimiento de 1982 y 1993 en Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Resumo: Este estudo avaliou a associação do peso ao nascer, idade gestacional e crescimento intrauterino com a densidade mineral óssea (DMO) aos 22 e 30 anos, nas coortes de nascimentos de 1982 e 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A DMO foi medida por absorciometria por raios X com dupla energia (DXA), a associação foi avaliada usando análise de variância e a regressão linear múltipla para o controle de confundimento por: sexo, renda familiar ao nascer, tabagismo materno na gestação, escolaridade materna, cor da pele materna e índice de massa corporal pré-gestacional. Foi testado se a gordura corporal na vida adulta era mediadora da associação analisada, por meio da G-computation Formula. Foram avaliados 6.803 participantes das coortes de 1982 e 1993, aos 30 e 22 anos, respectivamente. O peso ao nascer teve associação com a DMO em todos os sítios, com maior diferença no colo femoral. Os nascidos com menos de 2.000g apresentaram, em média, -0,036g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,064; -0,008) de DMO no colo femoral em comparação àqueles com mais de 3.500g. Aqueles com escore-z de crescimento intrauterino com pelo menos 1,28 desvio padrão abaixo da média apresentaram, em média, -0,013g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,024; -0,002) de DMO na coluna lombar, em relação aos com escore-z acima da média. A análise de mediação mostrou que gordura corporal na idade adulta não mediou a associação. As condições de nascimento foram associadas com a densidade mineral óssea na vida adulta, e a identificação dos fatores precoces relacionados à perda de DMO é essencial devido à inversão demográfica em progresso em países de média e baixa renda.

Abstract: This study assessed the association of birth weight, gestational age, and intrauterine growth with bone mineral density (BMD) at 22 and 30 years of age in the 1982 and 1993 birth cohorts in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and the association was assessed using analysis of variance. Multiple linear regression was used to control for confounding factors: sex; household income at birth; maternal smoking during pregnancy; maternal schooling; maternal ethnicity/skin color; and pre-pregnancy body mass index. The study tested whether body fat in adulthood was a mediator of the association analyzed, using the G-computation Formula. A total of 6,803 participants from the 1982 and 1993 cohorts were evaluated at 30 and 22 years of age, respectively. Birth weight was associated with BMD at all sites, with a greater difference at the femoral neck. Individuals born weighing less than 2,000g had on average -0.036g/cm2 (95%CI: -0.064; -0.008) of BMD in the femoral neck than individuals weighing more than 3,500g. Individuals with an intrauterine growth z-score at least 1.28 standard deviation below the mean had an average of -0.013g/cm2 (95%CI: -0.024; -0.002) of BMD in the lumbar spine compared with individuals with an above-average z-score. The mediation analysis showed that body fat in adulthood did not mediate the association. Birth conditions have been associated with BMD in adulthood and the identification of early factors related to bone loss is essential due to the demographic inversion that has been taking place in low- and middle-income countries.

Resumen: Este estudio evaluó la asociación del peso al nacer, la edad gestacional y el crecimiento intrauterino con la densidad mineral ósea (DMO) a los 22 y 30 años de edad, en las Cohortes de Nacimiento de 1982 y 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. La DMO se midió mediante absorciometría de rayos X de doble emisión (DXA), y la asociación se evaluó mediante ANOVA y regresión lineal múltiple para controlar la confusión por sexo, ingresos familiares al nacer, tabaquismo materno durante el embarazo, escolaridad materna, color de piel materno e índice de masa corporal antes del embarazo. Se comprobó si la grasa corporal en la edad adulta era un mediador de la asociación analizada, utilizando G-computation Formula. Se evaluaron 6.803 participantes de las cohortes 82 y 93, de 30 y 22 años, respectivamente. El peso al nacer se asoció con la DMO en todos los sitios, con la mayor diferencia en el cuello femoral. Los nacidos con un peso inferior a 2.000g tuvieron una media de -0,036g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,064; -0,008) de DMO en el cuello femoral, que aquellos con más de 3.500g. Aquellos con una puntuación z de crecimiento intrauterino de al menos 1,28 desviaciones estándar por debajo de la media presentaron un promedio de -0,013g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,024; -0,002) de DMO en la columna lumbar, con relación a aquellos con un puntaje z superior a la media. El análisis de mediación mostró que la grasa corporal en la edad adulta no medió la asociación. Las condiciones de nacimiento se asociaron con la DMO en la edad adulta, y la identificación temprana de factores relacionados con la pérdida de DMO es esencial debido a la inversión demográfica que ha estado ocurriendo en los países de ingresos medios y bajos.

Mode of delivery according to Robson classification and perinatal outcomes in restricted and small for gestational age fetuses

Abstract Objective To evaluate the mode of delivery according to Robson classification (RC) and the perinatal outcomes in fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses. Methods Retrospective cohort study by analyzing medical records of singleton pregnancies from two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). FGR was defined according to Delphi Consensus. The Robson groups were divided into two intervals (1-5.1 and 5.2-10). Results Total of 852 cases were included: FGR (n = 85), SGA (n = 20) and control (n=747). FGR showed higher percentages of newborns < 1,500 grams (p<0.001) and higher overall cesarean section (CS) rates (p<0.001). FGR had the highest rates of neonatal resuscitation and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p<0.001). SGA and control presented higher percentage of patients classified in 1 - 5.1 RC groups, while FGR had higher percentage in 5.2 - 10 RC groups (p<0.001). FGR, SGA and control did not differ in the mode of delivery in the 1-5.1 RC groups as all groups showed a higher percentage of vaginal deliveries (p=0.476). Conclusion Fetuses with FGR had higher CS rates and worse perinatal outcomes than SGA and control fetuses. Most FGR fetuses were delivered by cesarean section and were allocated in 5.2 to 10 RC groups, while most SGA and control fetuses were allocated in 1 to 5.1 RC groups. Vaginal delivery occurred in nearly 60% of FGR allocated in 1-5.1 RC groups without a significant increase in perinatal morbidity. Therefore, the vaginal route should be considered in FGR fetuses.

Valoración del margen de error ecográfico entre el peso fetal estimado y el peso al nacer en la Maternidad del Hospital de Clínicas / Assessment of the ultrasound margin of error between the estimated fetal weight and the weight at birth in the Maternity of the Hospital de Clínicas / Avaliação da margem de erro ultrassonográfica entre o peso fetal estimado e o peso ao nascer na Maternidade do Hospital de Clínicas

Introducción: La valoración ultrasonográfica del peso fetal permite valorar el crecimiento y bienestar fetal pudiendo estimar el peso al nacimiento, factor determinante para el pronóstico vital. Objetivos: Determinar el margen de error ecográfico del peso fetal estimado (PFE) en relación con el peso al nacer de los neonatos de la Maternidad del Hospital de Clínicas entre los años 2020 y 2022 Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal en mujeres que tuvieron un parto en el lugar y el período mencionado, y que contaban con ecografía obstétrica de crecimiento realizada con menos de 7 días respecto al nacimiento. Se calculó el error del PFE mediante la fórmula: (Peso al Nacer - Peso Fetal Estimado) / Peso al Nacer) x 100. Se contrastó el error del peso fetal estimado con el índice de masa corporal, diabetes y estados hipertensivos del embarazo, utilizando t de Student y con la edad gestacional y edad materna mediante el índice de Pearson tomando valores estadísticamente significativos menores a 0,05. Resultados: Se incluyeron 258 pacientes. El margen de error ecográfico del PFE fue de 8,3% DE ± 7. Se obtuvo un valor p para el IMC de 0,228, diabetes p 0,915, estados hipertensivos p 0,967, días en que se realizaba la ecografía p 0,5 y edad gestacional el p 0,001. Conclusiones: El margen de error ecográfico del PFE se encuentra por debajo de los parámetros internacionales. Se encontró asociación estadísticamente significativa con la edad gestacional, no así con las otras variables.

Introduction: Ultrasonographic assessment of fetal weight allows assessment of fetal growth and well-being and can estimate birth weight, a determining factor for vital prognosis. Objectives: Determine the ultrasound margin of error of the estimated fetal weight (EFP) in relation to the birth weight of neonates at the Maternity Hospital of the Hospital de Clínicas between the years 2020 and 2022. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out on women who had their birth in the aforementioned place and period and who had an obstetric growth ultrasound performed less than 7 days after birth. The error of the EPF was calculated using the formula: (Birth Weight - Estimated Fetal Weight) / Birth Weight) x 100. The error of the estimated fetal weight was contrasted with the body mass index, diabetes and hypertensive state of pregnancy, using Student's t and with gestational age and maternal age using the Pearson index taking statistically significant values ​​less than 0.05. Results: 258 patients were included. The ultrasound margin of error of the EPF was 8.3% SD ± 7. A p value was obtained for BMI of 0.228, diabetes p 0.915, hypertensive states p 0.967, days in which the ultrasound was performed p 0.5 and age gestational p 0.001. Conclusions: The ultrasound margin of error of the EPF is below the international parameters. Statistically significant associations were found with gestational age, but not with the other variables.

Introdução: A avaliação ultrassonográfica do peso fetal permite avaliar o crescimento e bem-estar fetal e pode estimar o peso ao nascer, fator determinante para o prognóstico vital. Objetivos: Determinar a margem de erro ultrassonográfica do peso fetal estimado (PFE) em relação ao peso ao nascer dos neonatos atendidos na Maternidade do Hospital de Clínicas entre os anos de 2020 e 2022. Materiais e Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal com mulheres que tiveram o parto no local e período mencionados e que realizaram ultrassonografia obstétrica de crescimento menos de 7 dias após o nascimento. O erro do PFE foi calculado pela fórmula: (Peso ao Nascer - Peso Fetal Estimado) / Peso ao Nascer) x 100. O erro do peso fetal estimado foi contrastado com o índice de massa corporal, diabetes e estado hipertensivo da gestação, utilizando-se o teste de Student. t e com idade gestacional e idade materna utilizando o índice de Pearson assumindo valores estatisticamente significativos menores que 0,05. Resultados: foram incluídos 258 pacientes. A margem de erro ultrassonográfica do PFE foi de 8,3% DP ± 7. Obteve-se valor de p para IMC de 0,228, diabetes p 0,915, estados hipertensivos p 0,967, dias em que foi realizada a ultrassonografia p 0,5 e idade gestacional p 0,001. Conclusões: A margem de erro ultrassonográfica do PFE está abaixo dos parâmetros internacionais. Foram encontradas associações estatisticamente significativas com a idade gestacional, mas não com as demais variáveis.

Navigating mixed connective tissue disease in pregnancy: a rare case report

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases (CTDs) in pregnancy present a complex interplay between maternal health and fetal outcomes. While historically discouraged due to potential complications, proper preconception counselling and disease control offer the prospect of safe pregnancies. This case report focuses on mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), a rare condition combining features of SLE, systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and polymyositis, presenting during pregnancy. A 29-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 1, with a history of rheumatoid arthritis, was referred at 31+4 weeks with a deranged coagulation profile, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and oligohydramnios. Extensive laboratory and imaging investigations confirmed MCTD diagnosis. Treatment involved LMWH, aspirin, hydroxychloroquine, and prednisolone. Comprehensive monitoring and multidisciplinary care were maintained throughout. Despite initial improvement, the patient faced complications at 35+3 weeks, leading to an emergency caesarean section at 36 weeks due to preterm FGR, oligohydramnios, and breech presentation. A male infant weighing 2.1 kgs was delivered, requiring neonatal intensive care due to prematurity and respiratory distress. Postoperatively, the mother resumed medication and was discharged with her baby. This case highlights successful MCTD management during pregnancy through meticulous monitoring and a multidisciplinary approach. The risk of complications necessitates informed preconception counselling, emphasizing the importance of disease remission, close surveillance, and prompt intervention in disease relapse. Comprehensive care, including medications and careful planning, contributes to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes in this rare and challenging scenario.

La suplementación con zinc favorece el crecimiento intrauterino en fetos de ratas diabéticas / Zinc supplementation favours intrauterine growth in diabetic rat fetuses

La deficiencia de zinc puede ser un factor mediador en los trastornos del crecimiento fetal en la descendencia de la gestante diabética. Se persiguió como objetivo determinar la influencia de un suplemento con zinc sobre la morfometría externa corporal y craneofacial en fetos de ratas diabéticas con hiperglucemias moderadas. Durante la gestación, ratas diabéticas y controles fueron suplementadas por vía oral con sulfato de zinc (50 mg/kg-pc) o no recibieron tratamiento. Los fetos descendientes del grupo diabético suplementado presentaron niveles similares a los controles en las variables de crecimiento somático determinadas. La suplementación con zinc a ratas diabéticas favoreció el crecimiento intrauterino en los fetos. Los resultados de esta investigación constituyen aportes para dilucidar los requerimientos de zinc que permitan prevenir los trastornos del crecimiento fetal en la descendencia de gestantes diabéticas.

Zinc deficiency may be a mediating factor in fetal growth disorders in the offspring of diabetic pregnant women. The objective was to determine the influence of a zinc supplement on external body and craniofacial morphometry in diabetic rat fetuses with moderate hyperglycemia. During gestation, diabetic and control rats were orally supplemented with zinc sulphate (50 mg/kg bw) or received no treatment. The fetuses descendants of the supplemented diabetic group had levels similar to the control ones in the determined somatic growth variables. Zinc supplementation to diabetic rats favoured intrauterine growth in fetuses. The results of this research constitute a contribution to elucidate zinc requirements that allow preventing fetal growth disorders in the offspring of diabetic pregnant women.

Resultados perinatales del crecimiento intrauterino restringido. Cienfuegos, 2022

Fundamento: el crecimiento intrauterino restringido necesita un manejo intensivo prenatal para determinar el estado fetal y el tiempo del parto. Objetivo: describir los resultados perinatales del crecimiento intrauterino restringido. Métodos: estudio de serie de casos desarrollado en el Hospital de Cienfuegos, en el 2022. Se estudiaron las variables: tipo de crecimiento intrauterino retardado, resultados del ultrasonido Doppler en vasos maternos y fetales, enfermedades que complicaron el embarazo, tipo de parto, peso y tiempo gestacional al parto, resultados adversos perinatales. Se comparó la distribución de variables de importancia en la clínica con los resultados adversos perinatales. Resultados: el crecimiento restringido afectó al 4,7 % de los partos, el 25 % fue de inicio precoz; el 17,3 % presentó preeclampsia, el 41,3 % tuvo IPM ArUt >95 p. El 14,4 % de los fetos presentó alteraciones en los flujos del Doppler (ICP<5 p con 42 %); el 98 % tuvo crecimiento restringido grado I. El 19 % de las gestantes necesitó interrupción del embarazo en semana 34 o antes. Se realizó cesárea al 44,6 % y el 18,7 % de los recién nacidos vivos necesitó ingreso en UCIN; hubo tres muertes neonatales y dos muertes fetales tardías. Los resultados adversos perinatales fueron más frecuentes en fetos con ICP<5 p, el parto antes de las 34 semanas y el peso al nacer menor de 1500 g (p<0,05). Conclusiones: la alteración del índice cerebro placentario en el feto, nacer antes de las 34 semanas y peso inferior a 1500 g al nacer, eleva el riesgo adverso perinatal en los fetos/neonatos con crecimiento intrauterino restringido.

Foundation: restricted intrauterine growth requires intensive prenatal management to determine fetal status and delivery time. Objective: To describe the perinatal outcomes of restricted intrauterine growth. Methods: case series study developed at the Cienfuegos Hospital in 2022. The studied variables were: type of delayed intrauterine growth, results of Doppler ultrasound in maternal and fetal vessels, diseases that complicated the pregnancy, type of delivery, weight and gestational time to delivery, adverse perinatal outcomes. The distribution of clinically important variables was compared with adverse perinatal outcomes. Results: delayed growth affected 4.7% of births, 25% had early onset; 17.3% had preeclampsia, 41.3% had MPI ArUt >95 p. 14.4% of fetuses presented alterations in Doppler flows (ICP<5 p with 42%); 98% had restricted growth grade I. 19% of pregnant women needed termination of pregnancy at week 34 or before. A cesarean section was performed in 44.6% and 18.7% of live newborns required admission to the NICU; there were three neonatal deaths and two late fetal deaths. Adverse perinatal outcomes were more frequent in fetuses with ICP<5 p, delivery before 34 weeks and birth weight less than 1500 g (p<0.05). Conclusions: the alteration of the cerebroplacental index in the fetus, birth before 34 weeks and weight less than 1500 g at birth, increases the adverse perinatal risk in fetuses/neonates with restricted intrauterine growth.

Perinatal outcome of pregnancies with previous stillbirth: a prospective case control study in tertiary care center

Background: Aim was to examine the association between stillbirth in first pregnancy and adverse perinatal outcome in second pregnancy. To determine risk factors causing recurrent stillbirth. Methods: This study was conducted at Government Medical College, and hospital, Nagpur. It was prospective case control study with cases as patients who had stillbirth in previous pregnancy and control as patient who had live birth in previous pregnancy. Results: There was 10 fold increased risk of recurrent stillbirth in cases compared to control. Preeclampsia was major risk factor followed by placental abruption; congenital anomaly and preterm labour were responsible for recurrent stillbirth. Conclusions: History of stillbirth in first pregnancy is associated with adverse perinatal outcome in form of recurrent stillbirth, increased NICU admission and neonatal death. Risk reduction by elimination of risk factor, proper antenatal surveillance and close monitoring during labour helps to reduce recurrent stillbirth.

Feto maternal outcomes of fibroid in pregnancy: a retrospective observational study

Background: Uterine fibroid is one of the most common intrauterine masses among females at the reproductive age. Although most of the uterine fibroids are asymptomatic during pregnancy, serious complications may occur. Aim of this study was to assess the obstetric outcome (maternal and fetal) in pregnancy with fibroid.Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in ABVIMS and RML hospital. 50 pregnant patients with >2 cm size fibroids were taken in the study. Maternal age, parity, size of the fibroid, complications during pregnancy, and mode of delivery were noted.Results: The 20% of pregnancies ended up in spontaneous abortions. 60% of them had to undergo caesarean section out of which, 10% was for non-progress of labor (NPOL), 5% for outlet obstruction, 5% with malpresentation, 16% patients with APH, 4% patients had elective LSCS for placenta previa and 10% with previous cesarean who were not willing for vaginal delivery. Other complications; placenta previa 16% and low lying placenta 10% patients, pre-eclampsia 20%, malpresentation 20%. Post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) was seen in 24% of the cases. 4% cases had red degeneration which were managed conservatively. Neonatal outcomes included 30% of babies born preterm, 40% being small for gestational age, 10% having low 1-minute APGAR score and 4% with low APGAR at 5 and 10 min. 30% had NICU admission for varied reasons.Conclusions: Fibroids in pregnancy may be associated with complications affecting the course of pregnancy and labor. So, pregnancy must be cautiously monitored in the antenatal period, through regular follow-up.

Predictive and prognostic significance of placental growth factor in pregnant women at high-risk for development of preeclampsia

Background: The study aimed to assess the predictive and prognostic role of placental growth factor (PlGF) in high-risk antenatal women for development of preeclampsia (PE).Methods: In this observational cohort study, antenatal women with gestation age from 20 to 32 weeks with high risk for development of PE were included. Serum PlGF was estimated by sandwich ELISA technique. A p-value of less than .05 was considered significant.Results: A total of 286 high-risk women were analysed for development of PE and obstetric outcomes. Of these 97/286 (34%) developed PE and 62/286 (21.7%) had abnormal PlGF value ( 100 pg/ml). Among the women with abnormal PIGF, 48 (77.4%) developed PE and out of 224 women with normal PIGF level, 49 (21.9%) developed PE resulting in a significant (p<0.001) odds ratio of 12.2 (95% CI: 6.0-25.9). For prediction of PE, a sensitivity and specificity of more than 75% at a cut-off value of <204.5 pg/ml was observed by ROC curve analysis. For prediction of preterm delivery (<34 weeks), a sensitivity and specificity of 65% was observed at a cut-off value of PlGF 191.7 pg/ml. Obstetric complications like eclampsia, preterm births (<34 weeks), neonate with low 5-minute APGAR score, low birth weight, fetal growth restriction, still-births and neonatal intensive care unit admissions all were significantly higher in abnormal PlGF group compared with normal PlGF group (p<0.05).Conclusions: Serum PlGF levels can provide valuable information for the prediction of PE and preterm births and abnormal PlGF values showed a significant association with adverse obstetrical outcomes.

Relación entre biometría fetal, producto de acumulación de los lípidos y condición trófica al nacer / Relationship between fetal biometry, lipid accumulation product and the trophic condition at birth

Fundamento: Las alteraciones del estado nutricional materno generalmente se relacionan con desviaciones del crecimiento fetal, que pueden detectarse por los parámetros biofísicos fetales e identifican la posible condición trófica al nacer. Objetivo: Determinar la posible relación entre los parámetros biométricos fetales, la condición trófica al nacer y el producto de acumulación de los lípidos. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal en el Policlínico Chiqui Gómez Lubian del municipio Santa Clara, durante el año 2019, en una población de 253 gestantes normopeso supuestamente sanas al inicio de la gestación. La muestra no probabilística fue de 144 gestantes. Las variables de estudio fueron: producto de acumulación de los lípidos, biometría fetal y condición trófica al nacer. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos, empíricos y estadísticos. Resultados: En el segundo trimestre ningún parámetro biométrico coincidió con la condición al nacer de pequeño, mientras que para el grande coincidieron las circunferencias cefálica y abdominal. En el tercer trimestre la longitud del fémur y la circunferencia abdominal coinciden en la identificación del pequeño y del grande. El PAL se correlacionó con la circunferencia abdominal del tercer trimestre y con el peso al nacer; presentando mayor frecuencia de valores en el tercer tertil para los nacimientos grandes. Conclusiones: La circunferencia abdominal fue el parámetro biométrico con mayor coincidencia con la condición trófica al nacer, la que se asoció con valores en el tercer tertil del PAL para la detección de nacimientos grandes, relacionándose el fenotipo normopeso metabólicamente obeso con el crecimiento fetal por exceso.

Background: Maternal nutritional status disorders are usually related to fetal growth deviations, which can be detected by fetal biophysical parameters and identify the possible trophic condition at birth. Objective: To determine the possible relationship between fetal biometric parameters, the birth trophic state and lipid accumulation product. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Chiqui Gómez Lubian Polyclinic in Santa Clara municipality, during 2019, in a population of 253 normal-weight pregnant women who were apparently healthy at the beginning of their gestation. The non-probability sample was made up of 144 pregnant women. Study variables were: lipid accumulation product, fetal biometry and trophic condition at birth. Theoretical, empirical and statistical methods were used. Results: In the second trimester, none of the biometric parameters matched the condition at birth as a small child, while in the large one the head and abdominal circumferences matched. In the third trimester, femoral length and abdominal circumference coincide in identifying the small one and the large one. LAP correlated with third trimester abdominal circumference and birth weight, presenting higher frequency of values in the third tertile for large births. Conclusions: Abdominal circumference was the biometric parameter with the highest coincidence with trophic condition at birth, associated with values in the third tertile of the LAP for detecting large births, relating the metabolically obese normal weight phenotype with excessive fetal growth.

Consenso SOCHOG/SOCHUMB: utilizar en Chile la curva estándar OMS ultrasonográfica de crecimiento fetal / SOCHOG/SOCHUMB consensus: OMS fetal ultrasound curve is the standard curve for ultrasound growth assessment to use in Chile

La Sociedad Chilena de Obstetricia y Ginecología (SOCHOG) y la Sociedad Chilena de Ultrasonido en Medicina y Biología (SOCHUMB) convocaron a un comité de expertos en el tema de ultrasonido y crecimiento fetal con el fin de proponer utilizar la curva fetal que mejor se adapte a la población chilena. Luego de la discusión, al no contar con curvas chilenas de crecimiento fetal, se concluye proponer que la curva estándar de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) sería la indicada dada la calidad de su metodología y por ser multicéntrica.

The Chilean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (SOCHOG) and the Chilean Society of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (SOCHUMB) have convened a committee of experts on the subject of ultrasound and fetal growth in order to propose using the fetal curve that best adapts to the Chilean population. After the discussion, since there are no Chilean fetal growth curves, it is concluded that the World Health Organization (WHO) standard curve would be the one to use given the quality of its methodology and the fact that it is multicentric.