Longitudinal ultrasonic biometry of various parameters in fetuses with abnormal growth rate

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Fetal Medicine
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Intrauterine growth restriction and acceleration are significant concerns in fetal development.
• Understanding the patterns of abnormal fetal growth is crucial for perinatal care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and categorize different growth rate patterns in fetuses exhibiting small-for-gestational age (SGA) and large-for-gestational age (LGA).
• To determine the primary factors influencing the type of intrauterine growth deviation.

Main Methods:

• Ultrasound examinations were performed to assess the growth rates of various organs and parameters in SGA and LGA fetal groups.
• Specific growth patterns were identified and classified within both SGA (three patterns) and LGA (two types) cohorts.

Main Results:

• Distinct ultrasound-assessed growth patterns were observed in fetuses categorized as small-for-gestational age (SGA).
• Specific types of growth acceleration were identified in fetuses classified as large-for-gestational age (LGA).

Conclusions:

• The timing of the causative insult during gestation is a more significant determinant of intrauterine growth retardation or acceleration than the etiological factor itself.
• Fetal growth deviation patterns are primarily dictated by the gestational timing of adverse events.