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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
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Fecal Glucocorticoid Analysis: Non-invasive Adrenal Monitoring in Equids
Published on: April 25, 2016
Antenatal Corticosteroids: Short-Term Gains, Long-Term Questions-A Meta-Analysis
Marharyta Sobczak1, Barbara Wencka2, Rafał Pawliczak1
1Department of Immunopathology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-752 Lodz, Poland.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Antenatal corticosteroids (ACSs) reduce newborn mortality but may increase risks for neurocognitive and developmental disorders later in life. Further research is needed to balance short-term benefits against potential long-term effects.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Antenatal corticosteroids (ACSs) are crucial for preterm birth management, reducing neonatal mortality and morbidity.
- Concerns exist regarding potential long-term adverse effects of fetal exposure to ACSs.
- This meta-analysis investigates the association between prenatal corticosteroid exposure and long-term health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the relationship between antenatal corticosteroid exposure and long-term neurological and other health outcomes.
- To quantify the risk of specific developmental disorders following prenatal ACS exposure.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register up to January 28, 2026.
- Inclusion of randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting long-term outcomes.
- Meta-analysis using a random effects model to determine effect sizes.
Main Results:
- Increased risk observed for suspected neurocognitive disorder (RR=1.17), hearing impairment (RR=1.18), autism spectrum disorders (RR=1.25), and mental/behavioral disorders (RR=1.25).
- A slight increase in visual impairment risk (RR=1.03) was also noted.
- No statistically significant associations were found for other neurological disorders or outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal exposure to ACSs may be associated with an elevated risk of specific long-term neurological outcomes.
- Findings require cautious interpretation due to established neonatal benefits.
- Further long-term observational studies are essential to fully assess the benefit-risk profile of ACSs.
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