Is Obesity a Risk Factor for Disorders of Amniotic Fluid?

OBJECTIVES: Prior studies show conflicting evidence as to whether obesity in the absence of other medical or pregnancy-related conditions contributes to amniotic fluid disorders. The purpose of this study is to determine the association between late-pregnancy obesity with oligohydramnios (amniotic fluid index [AFI] ≤5 cm or maximum vertical pocket [MVP] <2 cm) and/or polyhydramnios (AFI ≥24 cm or MVP ≥8 cm). METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of 961 women with singleton gestations who had one or more obstetrical ultrasounds at a single institution at 36 0/7 weeks gestation or beyond between August 1, 2015, and May 1, 2020. Patients were included if they had valid pregnancy dating and a documented AFI and/or MVP. Patients were categorized based on body mass index or BMI (eg, normal, overweight, Class I Obesity, Class II Obesity, or Class III Obesity). RESULTS: A total of 6.2% of patients met criteria for oligohydramnios based on AFI, MVP or both (n = 60). There was no significant association between oligohydramnios and increasing BMI, regardless of obesity class (P = .21). In terms of polyhydramnios, 5.6% of patients met criteria based on AFI, MVP, or both (n = 54). Similarly, there was also no significant association between polyhydramnios and increasing BMI, regardless of obesity class (P = .66). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated maternal BMI was not significantly associated with disorders of amniotic fluid, regardless of the severity of obesity.

Predicting the fetal weight by ultrasonography for isolated polyhydramnios: Comparison of 14 formulas.

OBJECTIVE: To recalculate the estimated fetal weight (EFW) based on ultrasound measurements in patients complicated with isolated polyhydramnios, using 14 current formulas to observe which formula better predicts the EFW. METHODS: This study examined pregnant women who gave birth in the hospital between January 2015 and January 2020. Maximum vertical pocket (MVP) was classified as, mild, moderate, and severe polyhydramnios, and the patients' measurements were reanalyzed using 14 formulas. The estimation of birth weight (EBW) alongside observed birth weight (OBW) facilitated the computation of statistical indices, namely the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) expressed as [(EBW - OBW)/OBW × 100], the mean percentage error (MPE) denoted as (EBW - OBW)/(OBW × 100), and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: A total of 564 polyhydramnios patients were included in the study. When looking at the MAPE, the lowest rate (7.65) was found in the Hadlock 2 formula. Hadlock 1, Hadlock 3, and Shinozuka formulas demonstrated MAPE values most closely aligned with Hadlock 2. Weiner I and Thurnau were the formulas with the highest MAPE values. When the cut-off values for MAPE were taken as 10%, 4/14 of the formulas (Weiner I-II, Vintzleos and Thurnau) gave results above 10%. Among 14 formulas, 3 (21.4%) had positive (sonographic overestimation) (Hadlock 3, Shinozuka, and Vintzleos) and the other 11 (78.6%) had negative MPE (sonographic underestimation). CONCLUSION: The Hadlock 2 formula had the lowest MAPE in predicting birth weight in patients with polyhydramnios, closely followed by the Hadlock 1, Hadlock 3, and Shinozuka formulas.

Fetal major anomalies and related maternal, obstetrical, and neonatal outcomes.

PURPOSE: To examine maternal, obstetrical, and neonatal outcomes of pregnancies complicated by major fetal anomalies. METHODS: A 10 year retrospective cohort study at a tertiary university hospital compared maternal and obstetrical outcomes between women with singleton pregnancies complicated by major fetal anomalies, and a control group with non-anomalous fetuses. RESULTS: For the study compared to the control group, the median gestational age at delivery was lower: 37.0 vs. 39.4 weeks (p < 0.001); and the preterm delivery rates were higher, both at < 37 weeks (46.2 vs. 6.2%, p < 0.001) and < 32 weeks (15.4 vs. 1.2%, p < 0.001). For the study compared to the control group, the placental abruption rate was higher (6.8 vs. 0.9%, p = 0.002); 87.5 vs. 100% occurred before labor. For the respective groups, the mean gestational ages at abruption were 32.8 ± 1.3 and 39.9 ± 1.7 weeks (p = 0.024); and cesarean section and postpartum hemorrhage rates were: 53.8 vs. 28.3% (p < 0.001) and 11.3 vs. 2.8% (p = 0.001), respectively. For the respective groups, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy rates were 9.5 vs. 2.1% (p = 0.004), stillbirth rates were 17.1 vs. 0.3% (p < 0.001), and neonatal death rates 12.5 vs. 0.0% (p < 0.001). Major fetal anomalies were found to be associated with adverse maternal outcomes (OR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.50-4.09, p < 0.001). Polyhydramnios was identified as an independent risk factor in a multivariate analysis that adjusted for fetal anomalies, conception by IVF, and primiparity for adverse maternal outcomes (OR = 4.7, 95% CI 1.7-13.6, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancies with major fetal anomalies should be treated as high-risk due to the increased likelihood of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Trial of labor following cesarean among patients with polyhydramnios: a multicenter retrospective study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess maternal and neonatal outcomes in patients with polyhydramnios attempting trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) compared to those undergoing planned repeat cesarean delivery (PRCD). METHODS: A multi-center retrospective cohort study was conducted and included women with term singleton viable pregnancies following a single low-segment transverse cesarean delivery (CD) with a polyhydramnios diagnosis (maximal vertical pocket > 8 cm and/or Amniotic Fluid Index > 24 cm) within 14 days before birth who delivered between the years 2017 and 2021. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between those attempting TOLAC and those opting for PRCD. The primary outcome was composite adverse maternal. Univariate analysis was followed by multivariate analysis to control for potential confounders. RESULTS: Out of 358 included births with a previous CD, 208 (58.1%) attempted TOLAC, while 150 had PRCD (41.9%). The successful vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) rate was 82.2%, and no cases of uterine rupture, hysterectomy, or maternal intensive care unit admission occurred in either group. After controlling for potential confounders, no independent association between TOLAC and composite adverse maternal (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-1.20, p = 0.16) and neonatal (aOR 0.89, 95% CI 0.51-1.53, p = 0.67) adverse outcomes was demonstrated. CONCLUSION: In patients with a term diagnosed polyhydramnios, TOLAC appears to be a reasonable alternative associated with favorable outcomes. Larger prospective studies are needed to refine management strategies and enhance maternal and neonatal outcomes in this context.

Pre- and Periviable PPROM after Fetoscopic Laser Surgery: Are Survival Outcomes Better than We Think?

INTRODUCTION: Limited data exist regarding outcomes when pre- and periviable PPROM (PPROM ≤26 weeks of gestation) occurs as a complication of fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of FLS cases performed at a single institution between January 2015 and May 2021. Study inclusion was limited to patients with monochorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS who underwent FLS. Patients were grouped by pPPROM status, and further stratified to those continuing with expectant management, and outcomes were compared between groups. The primary outcome was survival to live birth of at least one twin. RESULTS: During the study period, 171 patients underwent FLS and a total of 96 (56.1%) subjects satisfied inclusion criteria. Among included subjects, 18 (18.8%) experienced pPPROM after FLS and 78 (81.2%) did not. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Among patients with pPPROM, 11 (61.1%) pursued expectant management and 7 (38.9%) opted for pregnancy termination. Among expectantly managed subjects, median pPPROM-to-delivery interval was 47.0 days (6.0-66.0 IQR) with a median gestational age at delivery of 29+1 weeks (24 + 4-33 + 6 IQR). Rates of survival to live birth of at least one twin (90.9% vs. 96.2% p = 0.42) were similar between those with pPPROM undergoing expectant management and those without pPPROM. Dual survivorship (45.5% vs. 78.2%, p = 0.03), perinatal survival to live birth (68.2% vs. 87.2%, p = 0.05), and perinatal survival to newborn hospital discharge (59.1% vs. 85.9%, p = <0.01) were all significantly lower among those with pPPROM. Gestational age at delivery was lower among those continuing with pregnancies complicated by pPPROM (29 + 1 vs. 32+5 weeks, p = <0.01). CONCLUSION: Survival of at least one twin to live birth remained high among those pursing expectant management after experiencing post-FLS pPPROM, suggesting that the outlook after this complication is not necessarily poor. However, this complication was associated with lower chances of dual survival and greater prematurity.

Foetal cerebral blood redistribution in idiopathic polyhydramnios and the impact on perinatal outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic polyhydramnios is associated with adverse neonatal outcome. The aim of this study was to examine the value of the middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA-PI) in predicting adverse perinatal outcome in pregnancies affected by idiopathic polyhydramnios. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed during 2013-2022 at a tertiary-care university affiliated hospital. The study included singleton pregnancies with idiopathic polyhydramnios. Obstetrical and perinatal outcomes were compared between women with MCA-PI <10th percentile and women with MCA-P ≥ 10th percentile. A composite adverse perinatal outcome was defined as an Apgar score <7 at 5 minutes, umbilical artery pH <7.15, emergent caesarean delivery (CD) or operative delivery due to foetal distress, neonatal intensive care admission or foetal death. RESULTS: Among 45,459 pregnancies, 128 (0.3%) had idiopathic polyhydramnios; 27 exhibited MCA-PI <10th percentile. Among the latter, compared to pregnancies with MCA-PI ≥10th percentile group, the rates were higher of emergent CD (25.9% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.017) and adverse perinatal outcomes (37.0% vs. 15.8%, p = 0.020). These differences persisted in a subgroup analysis of women with moderate or severe polyhydramnios. In the MCA-PI <10th percentile group, the median MCA-PI and cerebroplacental ratio were lower: 0.9 vs. 1.7, p < 0.001 and 0.7 vs. 2.1, p < 0.001, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated a significant association of MCA-PI with emergent CD/operative delivery for foetal distress (area under curve = 0.672, p = 0.031); the sensitivity was 46.7% and specificity 82.3%. Cerebroplacental ratio values were not associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Idiopathic polyhydramnios might be associated with foetal cerebral blood flow redistribution, potentially contributing to an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes. Prospective studies are required to establish the role of foetal Doppler studies in the antenatal surveillance of idiopathic polyhydramnios, and to determine whether evidence of abnormal MCA-PI serves as a reliable predictor of perinatal outcomes, potentially necessitating labour induction.

Polyhydramnios is a condition in pregnancy characterized by an excessive amount of amniotic fluid, and in many cases, the cause remains unidentified, referred to as idiopathic polyhydramnios. This study aimed to determine whether changes in blood flow to the fetus's brain, specifically in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), could predict adverse outcomes during delivery. To assess this, the researchers used Doppler ultrasound to measure the pulsatility index (PI) of the MCA, which reflects the blood flow resistance in the artery. The study compared two groups of pregnancies with idiopathic polyhydramnios­those with reduced MCA blood flow (below the 10th percentile) and those with normal blood flow. It was observed that pregnancies with reduced MCA-PI were more likely to experience complications, such as emergency cesarean deliveries due to fetal distress and the need for neonatal intensive care unit admissions. These findings suggest that altered blood flow in the fetal brain might indicate increased risks of complications during delivery. The results support the idea that monitoring MCA blood flow in pregnancies complicated by polyhydramnios could offer valuable insights for early intervention and management. However, further research is necessary to confirm whether MCA Doppler assessments can reliably predict which pregnancies are at higher risk and whether such monitoring should guide clinical decisions like early induction of labor.

Polyhydramnios Secondary to Esophageal Atresia - Cervical Cerclage and Serial Amnioreduction to Prolong Gestational Age in Select Cases.

Esophageal atresia (OA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula affects approximately 1 in 4000 births and commonly presents with polyhydramnios. This appears to be the first report regarding the utility of cervical cerclage with serial amnioreduction to prolong the gestational age of a neonate with OA, thereby improving outcomes for reconstructive surgery.

Prenatal Diagnosis of Oral Teratoma by Ultrasound.

A pregnant woman had a normal second-trimester anatomic survey at 22 weeks gestation. She was revealed to have a fetal oral mass with polyhydramnios and invisible stomach bubble by ultrasound at 28 weeks. A 50 mm × 36 mm × 42 mm, solid mass was found in the fetal mouth, filling the entire oral cavity. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging showed a homogeneous solid mass in the oral cavity compressing the hypopharynx. At 33 weeks, preterm labor occurred because of the continuation of increased amniotic fluid volume, and a female infant was vaginally delivered. The infant died shortly after tracheal intubation attempt failed. Autopsy confirmed the prenatal sonographic finding. The final pathologic diagnosis was oral immature teratoma. Our study indicates that although oral teratomas are rare, they are readily apparent at prenatal sonographic examinations. Respiratory compromise is the frequent complication of oral teratomas, which is associated with high perinatal mortality.

Congenital hypotonia: systematic approach for prenatal detection.

OBJECTIVES: Congenital hypotonic conditions are rare and heterogeneous, and some are severely debilitating or lethal. Contrary to its prominent postnatal manifestation, the prenatal presentation of hypotonia is frequently subtle, inhibiting prenatal detection. We aimed to characterize the prenatal sonographic manifestation of congenital hypotonia throughout pregnancy, evaluate the yield of diagnostic tests and propose diagnostic models to increase its prenatal detection. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study of singleton pregnancies with congenital hypotonia, diagnosed either prenatally or immediately after birth, at a single tertiary center between the years 2012 and 2020. Prenatally, hypotonia was diagnosed if a fetus showed sonographic or clinical signs suggestive of hypotonia and had a confirmed underlying genetic condition, or in the absence of a known genetic abnormality if the fetus exhibited multiple prominent signs suggestive of hypotonia. Postnatally, it was diagnosed in neonates displaying reduced muscle tone leading to reduced spontaneous movement, reduced swallowing or feeding difficulty. We reviewed the medical records of pregnant patients carrying fetuses subsequently diagnosed with congenital hypotonia and assessed the yield of ultrasound scans, fetal magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and genetic tests. The detection rate of sonographic signs suggesting fetal hypotonia was calculated. The prevalence of non-specific signs, including polyhydramnios, persistent breech presentation, intrauterine growth restriction and maternal perception of reduced fetal movement, were compared between the study group and the local liveborn singleton population. Potential detection rates of different theoretical semiotic diagnostic models, differing in the threshold for referral for a targeted scan, were assessed based on the cohort's data. RESULTS: The study group comprised 26 cases of congenital hypotonia, of which 10 (38.5%) were diagnosed prenatally, and the controls included 95 105 singleton live births, giving a prevalence of congenital hypotonia of 1:3658. Nuchal translucency thickness and the early anomaly scan at 13-17 weeks were normal in all 22 and 23 cases, respectively, in which this was performed. The mid-trimester scan performed at 19-25 weeks was abnormal in four of 24 (16.7%) cases. The overall prenatal detection rate of congenital hypotonic conditions in our cohort was 38.5%. Only cases which underwent a targeted scan were detected and, among the 16 cases which underwent this scan, the prenatal detection rate was 62.5% compared with 0% in pregnancies that did not undergo this scan (P = 0.003). An abnormal genetic diagnosis was obtained in 21 (80.8%) cases using the following modalities: chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) in two (9.5%), whole-exome sequencing (WES) in 14 (66.7%) and methylation analysis in five (23.8%). CMA was abnormal in 8% (2/25) of the cases and WES detected a causative genetic mutation in 87.5% (14/16) of the cases in which these were performed. Comparison of non-specific signs in the study group with those in the local singleton population showed that hypotonic fetuses had significantly more polyhydramnios (64.0% vs 3.0%, P < 0.0001), persistent breech presentation (58.3% vs 4.2%, P < 0.0001), intrauterine growth restriction (30.8% vs 3.0%, P < 0.0001) and maternal perception of reduced fetal movement (32.0% vs 4.7%, P < 0.0001). Prenatally, the most commonly detected signs supporting a diagnosis of hypotonia were structural anomaly (62.5%, 10/16), reduced fetal movement (46.7%, 7/15), joint contractures (46.7%, 7/15) and undescended testes ≥ 30 weeks (42.9%, 3/7 males). Proposed diagnostic strategies that involved performing a targeted scan for a single non-specific ultrasound sign or two such signs, and then carrying out a comprehensive genetic evaluation for any additional sign, offered theoretical detection rates in our cohort of 88.5% and 57.7%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Congenital hypotonic conditions are rare and infrequently detected prenatally. Sonographic signs are visible from the late second trimester. A targeted scan increases prenatal detection significantly. Comprehensive genetic testing, especially WES, is the cornerstone of diagnosis in congenital hypotonia. Theoretical diagnostic models which may increase prenatal detection are provided. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Idiopathic polyhydramnios and pregnancy outcome: systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze outcomes of singleton pregnancies with idiopathic polyhydramnios through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: Electronic databases, including MEDLINE, OVID, EBSCO, Cochrane collection and Science Citation Index, were searched from 1946 to 2019. Gray literature and tables of contents of relevant journals were also screened. Prospective and retrospective studies with a control group were included. Two authors independently reviewed the abstracts retrieved from the literature search. Inclusion criteria were: studies documented in English, singleton pregnancy and idiopathic polyhydramnios determined by amniotic fluid volume assessment on ultrasound. Exclusion criteria were: maternal diabetes, fetal structural or chromosomal anomaly, alloimmunization and intrauterine fetal infection. RESULTS: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, giving a total of 2392 patients with idiopathic polyhydramnios and 160 135 patients with normal amniotic fluid volume. Pregnancies complicated by idiopathic polyhydramnios were at a higher risk of neonatal death (odds ratio (OR), 8.68 (95% CI, 2.91-25.87)), intrauterine fetal demise (OR, 7.64 (95% CI, 2.50-23.38)), neonatal intensive care unit admission (OR, 1.94 (95% CI, 1.45-2.59)), 5-min Apgar score < 7 (OR, 2.21 (95% CI, 1.34-3.62)), macrosomia (OR, 2.93 (95% CI, 2.39-3.59)), malpresentation (OR, 2.73 (95% CI, 2.06-3.61)) and Cesarean delivery (OR, 2.31 (95% CI, 1.79-2.99)). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that pregnancies complicated by idiopathic polyhydramnios are at increased risk of adverse outcome. Future investigations should aim to determine an amniotic fluid volume threshold above which antenatal fetal surveillance is appropriate in the management of these pregnancies. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Discrimination of blood metabolomics profiles in neonates with idiopathic polyhydramnios.

This study aimed to compare the blood metabolic status of neonates with idiopathic polyhydramnios (IPH) and those with normal amniotic fluid, and to explore the relationship between IPH and fetal health. Blood metabolites of 32 patients with IPH and 32 normal controls admitted to the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between January 2017 and December 2022 were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and metabolite enrichment analyses were performed to identify the differential metabolites and metabolic pathways. There was a significant difference in the blood metabolism between newborns with IPH and those with normal amniotic fluid. Six discriminant metabolites were identified: glutamate, serine, asparagine, aspartic acid, homocysteine, and phenylalanine. Differential metabolites were mainly enriched in two pathways: aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to investigate metabolomic profiles in newborns with IPH and examine the correlation between IPH and fetal health. Differential metabolites and pathways may affect amino acid synthesis and the nervous system. Continuous attention to the development of the nervous system in children with IPH is necessary. WHAT IS KNOWN: • There is an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes with IPH, such as perinatal death, neonatal asphyxia, neonatal intensive care admission, cesarean section rates, and postpartum hemorrhage. • Children with a history of IPH have a higher proportion of defects than the general population, particularly central nervous system problems, neuromuscular disorders, and other malformations. WHAT IS NEW: • In neonates with IPH, six differential metabolites were identified with significant differences and good AUC values using LC-MS/MS analysis: glutamic acid, serine, asparagine, aspartic acid, homocysteine, and phenylalanine, which were mainly enriched in two metabolic pathways: aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. • These differential metabolites and pathways may affect amino acid synthesis and development of the nervous system in neonates with IPH.

Fetal pharyngeal glial heterotopia manifested as polyhydramnios: a rare case with difficult prenatal diagnosis.

BACKGROUND: Glial heterotopia is a rare congenital developmental malformation that presents as tumor-like lesions of the nerve tissue that grow outside the nervous system, but are not true tumors. At present, most cases are reported in neonates and children and are very rarely found in fetuses. The present report describes a case of fetal pharyngeal glial heterotopia and associated imaging findings to better understand the disease in the future. CASE PRESENTATION: A 32-year-old pregnant woman was admitted to the hospital with polyhydramnios. An ultrasound examination revealed a hypoechoic mass in the neck of the fetus. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a well-defined mass with significant compression of the esophagus and airway. The amniotic fluid index was approximately 40 cm. Considering that difficulty swallowing and breathing may occur due to compression by the mass after birth, tracheotomy and mass resection should be performed immediately. The difficulty of the tumor resection procedure and the nature of the tumor are both factors affecting the prognosis of the fetus. The pregnant woman eventually chose to induce labor. The fetal pharyngeal mass was then resected and its pathological examination indicated pharyngeal glial heterotopia. CONCLUSIONS: Polyhydramnios due to pharyngeal glial heterotopia is extremely rare and accurate prenatal diagnosis is challenging. Clinical diagnosis of glial heterotopia in preterm fetuses is difficult. Therefore, understanding glial heterotopia is helpful to improve clinical treatment options.

What to expect after birth in idiopathic polyhydramnios? An analysis of postnatal diagnoses and their relationship to the polyhydramnios degree.

PURPOSE: To analyze postnatal abnormalities in idiopathic polyhydramnios and to estimate whether there was an association between the severity of polyhydramnios and postnatally diagnosed abnormalities. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of all idiopathic polyhydramnios cases delivered at our center between 2017 and 2021. Cases were identified as idiopathic after excluding known fetal genetic or structural abnormalities (including soft markers for aneuploidies), Rh isoimmunization, fetal anemia, multifetal pregnancies, pregestational or gestational diabetes, and known infection with TORCH group agents. The primary outcome was the association between polyhydramnios degree and any abnormalities detected after birth. Additional outcomes were the odds of specific groups of abnormalities based on polyhydramnios degree. RESULTS: The prevalence of idiopathic polyhydramnios was 14.7%. Outcomes of 242 pregnancies with idiopathic polyhydramnios were analyzed. At least one neurodevelopmental, structural, or genetic abnormality was diagnosed in 16.1% of children born to women with idiopathic polyhydramnios. Moderate and severe polyhydramnios are significantly associated with at least one abnormality diagnosed after birth (45.9%, and 41.6%, respectively, p < 0.05). Neurodevelopmental disorders were the most frequent abnormality (5.4%), followed by genetic abnormalities (4.1%) and gastrointestinal abnormalities (2%). Odds of genetic abnormalities and neurodevelopmental disorders in moderate polyhydramnios were significantly higher compared to mild [OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.1-4.3 and aOR 2.4 (95% CI 1.1-3.6) respectively]. As expected, gastrointestinal anomalies were significantly associated with severe polyhydramnios [OR 3.2 (95% CI 1.9-5.5)]. CONCLUSION: Moderate and severe idiopathic polyhydramnios are associated with anomalies diagnosed after birth. Particularly high risks include neurodevelopmental disorders, genetic abnormalities, and gastrointestinal atresias.

Clinical implications of the 100-g oral glucose tolerance test in the third trimester.

PURPOSE: The clinical implications of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosed in the third trimester are not well established and controversy continues regarding the performance of diagnostic tests beyond 28-week gestation. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of abnormal third trimester oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results in women at high risk and to compare the obstetric and neonatal outcomes with those of women with normal OGTT results. METHODS: The study included 372 women who completed late (>29 weeks) 100-g OGTT due to suspected fetal macrosomia, polyhydramnios or a personal risk factor for GDM, diagnosed according to the Carpenter & Coustan criteria. Women with only one abnormal OGTT value were diagnosed with GDM by abnormal glucose follow-up and analyzed separately. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between the GDM and the non-GDM groups. RESULTS: GDM was diagnosed in 85/372 (22%) women, including 35 (59.3%) women with one abnormal OGTT value who were later diagnosed with GDM. Of 200 women who had a normal 1-h 50-g glucose challenge test at 24-28 weeks, late GDM was diagnosed in 33 (16.5%). Seventy-six (89.5%) of those with GDM were treated by dietary therapy and 9 (10.5%) by pharmacological therapy. Among women with GDM, large-for-gestational-age fetuses, labor induction and elective cesarean section were more prevalent than for those without GDM. Significant differences were not found between the groups in macrosomia and neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The performance of OGTT in women with risk factors during the third trimester should be considered following further prospective trials.

Parental risk factors for oesophageal atresia.

BACKGROUND: An Oesophageal atresia (OA) affects almost 1 in 3500 newborn and its aetiology for development between 4th to 6th pregnancy weeks had not yet been clarified. METHODS: This retrospective, observational control group-supported (n = 30) examination was performed with OA mothers (n = 20) who were interrogated via specialized questionnaires and interviews to evaluate data on medical pregnancy history including hormonal treatment, changing of life habits (nutrition, diet, medication), drug consumption (alcohol, smoking, illicit drugs) as well as exposure to nuclear waste or poisonous substance exposition. Aim was to assess risk factors during pregnancy and in particular in the first trimester. RESULTS: The body mass index (BMI) prior pregnancy of OA mothers was significant lower (p = 0.022) and the number of mothers with obesity (BMI>30) did not differ to control group mothers (p = 0.081). They had additionally more pre-existing illnesses (p = 0.009) and allergies (p = 0.001). Control group mothers changed dietary habits with higher meat (p = 0.032) and caffeine intake (p = 0.012) compared to OA mothers, which had higher rates of abnormalities during pregnancy (p < 0.001) and 38.7% of them suffered of ≥1 abortion in the past. The ethnical background of OA mothers was more often German (p < 0.033), while OA fathers had a lower socioeconomic status (p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: Maternal factors like previous abortions, obesity and immunological predispositions like existence of allergies combined with increased daily dairy consumption influenced obviously the occurrence of OA.

Fetal epicardial fat thickness in non-severe idiopathic polyhydramnios: Its impact on fetal cardiac function and perinatal outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate fetal epicardial fat thickness (EFT) along with fetal myocardial performance index (MPI) and its effects on perinatal outcomes in non-severe idiopathic polyhydramnios (IP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study included 92 participants, 32 diagnosed with non-severe IP, and 60 healthy pregnant women. Amniotic fluid indices (AFI), umbilical and middle cerebral artery Doppler, EFT, and MPI measurements were performed for all patients. RESULTS: The fetal EFT and MPI values were statistically higher in the non-severe IP group than in the control group (p = 0.0001, p = 0.014, respectively). The optimal fetal EFT cutoff value for predicting non-severe IP disease was found as 1.3 mm with a specificity of 81.7% and sensitivity of 59.4%. The EFT cutoff for predicting cesarean section in non-severe IP cases was 1.25 mm (p = 0.038). Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit, respiratory distress syndrome, and stillbirth rates were not different between groups. CONCLUSION: In this study, EFT and MPI were found to be higher in non-severe IP cases compared to controls. It was observed that the increase in MPI and EFT was associated with the increase in cesarean rates, but not with adverse fetal outcomes.

Infection-Induced Rhabdomyolysis in a Pregnant Woman with Undiagnosed Myotonic Dystrophy: A Case Report.

A 34-year-old nulliparous gravid female presented with acute bilateral pyelonephritis at 29 + 5 weeks gestation. The patient was relatively well until two weeks ago when a slight increase in amniotic fluid was noted. Further investigation revealed myoglobinuria and significantly elevated levels of creatine phosphokinase. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis. Twelve hours after admission, the patient noted reduced fetal movements. A non-stress test revealed fetal bradycardia and non-reassuring variability in fetal heart rate. An emergency cesarean section was performed, and a "floppy" female child was delivered. Genetic testing revealed congenital myotonic dystrophy, and the mother was also diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy. Rhabdomyolysis has a very low incidence in pregnancy. Herein, we report a rare case of myotonic dystrophy with rhabdomyolysis in a gravid female with no history of myotonic dystrophy. Acute pyelonephritis is a causative agent of rhabdomyolysis that results in preterm birth.

The prenatal detection of distal tracheoesophageal fistulas in fetuses diagnosed with esophageal atresia.

BACKGROUND: Esophageal atresia is a major anomaly of varying severity. The complexity of surgical correction depends on the presence of a distal fistula. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the feasibility and accuracy of prenatal ultrasound detection of the distal fistula in fetuses diagnosed with esophageal atresia. STUDY DESIGN: This was an observational study conducted at a single tertiary care center between 2019 and 2021. Included were pregnant patients carrying a fetus prenatally diagnosed with esophageal atresia that was confirmed postnatally during corrective surgery or at postmortem autopsy. During the scan, the performing investigator determined the presence or absence of a distal fistula by scanning the location of the lower esophagus during fetal breathing. Cases in which the lower esophagus was observed distending with amniotic fluid during breathing were deemed "fistula present," and the remaining cases "fistula absent." Test feasibility and performance indices, including sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were calculated. The offline clips and images were reviewed by 2 investigators for the assessment of interoperator agreement using Cohen's Kappa formula. RESULTS: Included were 16 fetuses with esophageal atresia scanned between 2019 and 2021. All fetuses were successfully scanned with sufficient resolution of the area of interest during at least 3 cycles of breathing. It took a median of 8.5 minutes to determine the presence or absence of a distal fistula. The feasibility of the test was 100% (16/16). The test's sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 80% (95% confidence interval, 55-100), 100% (95% confidence interval, 60-100), 100% (95% confidence interval, 65-100), and 75% (95% confidence interval, 45-100), respectively. The Cohen's Kappa for interoperator agreement was calculated to be 1, P<.001, corresponding to a "perfect" level of agreement. CONCLUSION: Distal fistulas in esophageal atresia can be demonstrated prenatally by targeted scanning using appropriate technique. The method provided is feasible, reproducible, and has excellent performance indices. This novel technique and observations may improve the prenatal diagnosis and counseling of esophageal atresia.

Comparing pregnancy, childbirth, and neonatal outcomes in women with idiopathic polyhydramnios: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: In this prospective cohort study, the perinatal outcome in idiopathic polyhydramnios compared with normal pregnancies was examined. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of 180 singleton pregnancies who received care at the referral gynecology clinic of Yasuj, Iran between 2018-2020. The inclusion criteria comprised singleton pregnancies, gestational age > 34 weeks; fetuses without structural and chromosomal abnormalities in pregnancy screening test, no maternal diabetes, negative TORCH negative screening test, no Rh factor isoimmunization. Polyhydramnios was defined as: (i) amniotic fluid index ≥ 24 cm; (ii) maximal vertical pocket of ≥ 8 cm. Perinatal outcomes were recorded in both groups. RESULTS: Postpartum hemorrhage (7.8% vs. 2.2; OR: 1.60; 95% CI 1.09-2.34) and cesarean delivery (51.11% vs. 21.11; OR: 1.88; 95% CI 1.42-2.50) and respiratory distress (4.4 v vs. 0; OR: 2.04; 95 C CI 1.75-2.80) was significantly higher in the idiopathic polyhydramnios (P ≤ 0.05) compared to normal pregnancy, which increased with severity of idiopathic polyhydramnios. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the results of the current study, suggest that idiopathic polyhydramnios may be associated with a higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean delivery, and respiratory distress than a normal pregnancy.

Clinical Conundrum: Polyhydramnios as a Marker for a Fetal Genetic Syndrome in the Canadian Old Order Mennonite Population.

A 35-year-old woman was referred to genetics for 2 soft markers but was also found to have polyhydramnios. The couple were Old Order Mennonite, and carrier testing allowed for targeted investigation of syndromes associated with polyhydramnios in this population. Both parents were carriers of a 7304 bp deletion in the STRADA (LYK5) gene, causing an autosomal recessive syndrome of polyhydramnios, megalencephaly, and symptomatic epilepsy. This led to early recognition and treatment of neonatal seizures. Targeted testing can significantly shorten the diagnostic odyssey and decrease the cost of investigations, an especially important consideration for families who do not accept health insurance.