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Blood leucocyte count in the human fetus
N P Davies1, A G Buggins, R J Snijders
1King's College School of Medicine and Dentistry, Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, London.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Fetal leucocyte (white blood cell) counts increase significantly during gestation. This study details normal fetal white blood cell development, noting a potential link between early third-trimester leucopenia and neonatal infection susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Hematology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Fetal immune system development is crucial for neonatal health.
- Understanding normal fetal leukocyte development is essential for identifying deviations.
- Prenatal infection risk in premature neonates necessitates investigation into fetal immune parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish reference ranges for total and differential leucocyte counts in normal fetuses.
- To analyze the changes in fetal leucocyte populations throughout gestation (18-40 weeks).
- To explore the relationship between gestational age and fetal leucocyte counts, particularly concerning neonatal infection predisposition.
Main Methods:
- Cord blood samples were collected from 327 normal fetuses (18-40 weeks gestation) via cordocentesis or elective cesarean section.
- Total and differential leucocyte counts were performed.
- Statistical analysis was used to determine changes in leucocyte counts relative to gestational age.
Main Results:
- Total fetal leucocyte count increased exponentially with gestation, from 2.8 x 10(9)/l at 18 weeks to 11.8 x 10(9)/l at term.
- Lymphocyte and monocyte counts showed linear increases, while neutrophil counts rose exponentially.
- Early myeloid cells, eosinophils, and basophils were present but constituted <2% of total leucocytes with no significant gestational changes.
Conclusions:
- Fetal leucocyte counts exhibit distinct developmental patterns throughout gestation.
- The observed physiological leucopenia in early third-trimester fetuses may contribute to the increased susceptibility of premature neonates to infections.
- These findings provide a baseline for fetal leucocyte development and inform understanding of neonatal immune defense.