Diagnosis, Prevention, and Management of Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)

Area of Science:

• Perinatal Medicine
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Fetal growth restriction (FGR), also known as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), is the second leading cause of perinatal mortality.
• Contributing factors to FGR are categorized into placental, fetal, and maternal origins.
• Understanding FGR is critical for assessing risks of perinatal failure and later-life health issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic approaches for fetal growth restriction.
• To evaluate the potential for therapeutic interventions during pregnancy.
• To discuss the implications of early pregnancy termination for FGR cases.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a combination of biophysical and biochemical diagnostic methods.
• Assessing the embryo-placenta unit's condition.
• Investigating the risks of perinatal outcomes and long-term morbidity.

Main Results:

• Prenatal diagnostic methods can detect fetal condition deterioration.
• No current therapeutic interventions effectively enhance placental function or fetal weight.
• Early termination of pregnancy may reduce perinatal mortality and long-term morbidity.

Conclusions:

• Fetal growth restriction necessitates timely diagnosis through comprehensive methods.
• The absence of effective in-utero treatments highlights the importance of monitoring and management.
• Early intervention, including potential termination, should be considered to mitigate adverse outcomes.