Cord Blood IMA Levels in Normal and Intrauterine Growth Restricted Pregnancies
Author Information
Author(s): Iacovidou Nicoletta, Briana Despina D. Boutsikou, Maria Liosi, Sophia Baka, Stavroula Boutsikou, Theodora Hassiakos, Demetrios Malamitsi-Puchner, Ariadne Malamitsi-Puchner
Primary Institution: Neonatal Division, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Athens University Medical School
Hypothesis
Cord blood IMA levels should not differ between IUGR and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) full-term pregnancies.
Conclusion
Cord blood IMA levels at term do not differ between IUGR cases and AGA controls, possibly due to the sparing of vital organs.
Supporting Evidence
- IMA levels were elevated in cases of elective cesarean section.
- Offspring of multigravidas had higher IMA levels compared to primigravidas.
- No significant differences in IMA levels were found between IUGR and AGA groups.
Takeaway
The study found that the levels of a certain protein in the blood of babies born to mothers with growth issues were similar to those born to healthy mothers, suggesting that the babies' bodies are protecting important organs.
Methodology
Blood samples were taken from the umbilical cords of 110 AGA and 57 IUGR pregnancies to measure IMA levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in participant selection and reporting of outcomes.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing IMA levels, such as maternal health conditions.
Participant Demographics
Included 110 AGA and 57 IUGR pregnancies, with mothers having various health conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
.035
Confidence Interval
95%: 109.95–114.92 for AGA, 95%: 111.97–119.12 for IUGR
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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