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Published on: November 20, 2015
Neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm histological chorioamnionitis
Agnese Suppiej1, Malida Franzoi, Stefania Vedovato
1Child Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. suppiej@pediatria.unipd.it
Early Human Development
|November 11, 2008
Summary
Histological chorioamnionitis in preterm births may increase the risk of developmental delays. This condition was associated with higher rates of speech delay and hearing loss in premature infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Neurology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Histological chorioamnionitis (HCA) is a placental inflammation of unclear significance for neonatal neurological outcomes.
- Preterm infants are particularly vulnerable to neurodevelopmental challenges.
- Understanding HCA's impact is crucial for improving preterm infant care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between HCA and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.
- To identify specific neurological risks linked to HCA in this population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study of preterm neonates (<32 weeks gestation) admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
- Placental histology performed to diagnose HCA.
- Neurodevelopmental assessment at 18 months corrected age via parental questionnaire.
Main Results:
- HCA was diagnosed in 39.4% of 104 placentas.
- Higher risk of disability in vision, hearing, speech, and motor development observed in the HCA group.
- Statistically significant increased risk for speech delay (RR 2.37) and hearing loss (RR 2.76) in infants with HCA.
Conclusions:
- Preterm histological chorioamnionitis may be a risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- This study suggests a potential link between HCA and increased incidence of hearing loss and speech delay in preterm infants.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate underlying mechanisms.
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