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Published on: December 31, 2015
Thigh circumference and thigh-to-head ratio in preterm and term infants
Insights
This study establishes normal standards for newborn thigh circumference and related measurements. These findings aid in diagnosing altered fetal growth using specific ratios and indices.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal research
- Fetal development studies
- Pediatric anthropometry
Background:
- Altered fetal growth diagnosis relies on multiple measurements beyond weight and length.
- Key measurements include head, abdominal, and thigh circumference.
- Establishing normative data is crucial for accurate assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present normal standards for thigh circumference, thigh-to-head ratio, and Rohrer's ponderal index.
- To correlate these measurements with gestational age and birth weight in newborns.
- To provide reference values for diagnosing impaired fetal growth.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Measurement of thigh circumference, head circumference, and ponderal index in newborns.
- Analysis of data in relation to gestational age (27–41 weeks) and birth weight.
Main Results:
- Normal standards for thigh circumference, thigh-to-head ratio, and Rohrer's ponderal index were established.
- Specific thresholds (thigh-to-head ratio < 0.38, ponderal index < 2.3) identified for term infants.
- Data presented in relation to gestational age and birth weight.
Conclusions:
- Thigh circumference, thigh-to-head ratio, and ponderal index are valuable for diagnosing altered fetal growth.
- Established standards serve as a reference for clinical assessment and fetal ultrasonography.
- These anthropometric measures contribute to improved diagnostic accuracy in neonatology.
Abstract:
The diagnosis of altered fetal growth requires multiple criteria that include not only weight and length measurements, but also head, abdominal, and thigh circumference measurements. This cross-sectional study presents the normal standards for thigh circumference, thigh-to-head ratio, and Rohrer's ponderal index in newborn infants from 27 to 41 weeks' gestation, in relation to gestational age and birth weight. A thigh-to-head ratio of < 0.38 and a ponderal index < 2.3 in a term infant are important measurements for appropriate diagnosis of impaired fetal growth. These standards may also serve as reference for comparison with fetal ultrasonographic measurements.
