The association between isolated oligohydramnios at term and risk of small for gestational age: A meta-analysis

BackgroundDue to the scarcity of available data on the association between isolated oligohydramnios and the risk of small for gestational age (SGA), we undertook a meta-analysis to investigate this relationship.MethodsPubMed (Medline), Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct were systematically queried up to February 26, 2024. Analysis was conducted using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated among studies utilizing the chi-square test (χ²) and the I² statistic. Additionally, we conducted regression tests including Egger's and Begg's tests to assess publication bias. We employed the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the quality of observational articles. Statistical significance was set at a p-value less than 0.05 using Stata software, version 13.ResultsIn the present meta-analysis, seven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the present systematic review and meta-analysis. The association between isolated oligohydramnios at term and the risk of SGA in crude studies was 2.22 (95% CI: 1.49, 2.94; I² = 82.5%). Conversely, in adjusted studies, the association was 2.18 (95% CI: 1.78, 2.57; I² = 0.0%).ConclusionThe present meta-analysis indicates that isolated oligohydramnios is a significant risk factor for the SGA. Therefore, monitoring to diagnose SGA should be done in mothers with isolated oligohydramnios.