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Published on: June 29, 2013
Extrauterine growth restriction: a review of the literature
1Stanford University Medical Center, Division of Neonatal & Developmental Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA. imnotahippo@yahoo.com
Insights
Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) affects many very low birth weight infants, often leading to poorer long-term health outcomes. Understanding and preventing EUGR is crucial for improving infant survival and development.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) is a prevalent complication in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants.
- VLBW infants with EUGR exhibit growth below the tenth percentile for corrected gestational age by hospital discharge.
- EUGR is the most common morbidity observed in VLBW survivors at discharge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of EUGR in VLBW infants.
- To underscore the association between EUGR and adverse developmental and long-term health outcomes.
- To emphasize the need for further research into the causes and prevention of EUGR.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on EUGR in VLBW infants.
- Analysis of studies investigating the causes of EUGR.
- Examination of research linking EUGR to developmental outcomes and chronic diseases.
Main Results:
- Causes of EUGR remain inconclusive despite numerous studies.
- EUGR is linked to poorer developmental outcomes in VLBW survivors.
- EUGR is associated with increased long-term morbidity and chronic diseases.
Conclusions:
- EUGR is a critical issue impacting VLBW infant health.
- Further investigation into EUGR etiology and prevention strategies is warranted.
- Addressing EUGR is essential for improving the long-term health trajectory of preterm infants.
Abstract:
Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) is a common condition in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants (< or = 1,500 g). Most affected infants have a birth weight that is average for gestational age, but by the time of hospital discharge have a weight that is less than the tenth percentile for corrected gestational age. EUGR is the most frequent morbidity among VLBW survivors at their time of discharge from the hospital. Studies to elucidate the causes of EUGR have been inconclusive. Recent research has found an association between EUGR, developmental outcomes, and long-term morbidity. Low birth weight has also been associated with chronic diseases later in life. These findings emphasize the critical nature of understanding the phenomenon of EUGR and ways it can be prevented.
