Prenatal corticosteroid use and offspring neurological outcomes

Prenatal use of synthetic corticosteroids has been widely applied in preventing respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants. In recent years, research has begun to focus on the effects of Antenatal Corticosteroids(ACS) on the short-term and long-term neurological development of offspring. This review summarizes the direct and potential effects of ACS on offspring neurological outcomes, including cognitive function, behavioral problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies have shown that prenatal corticosteroid exposure may be associated with improved short-term neurological outcomes in extremely preterm infants. However, the benefits on near- and long-term outcomes in late preterm and full-term infants remain inconclusive and controversial due to a lack of robust evidence. This article explores the potential effects of exposure timing and different dosages on offspring neurological outcomes, and emphasizes the need for further research to optimize the indications for ACS use. This will ensure its benefits in preterm complications while minimizing its potential negative impact on offspring neurodevelopment.