Maternal disease and injury in pregnancy

Progress in the management of medical disorders of pregnancy has occurred in many areas. Only salient features are reviewed. The pathophysiology of maternal hyperglycemia in diabetes and its effects on the fetus are explored. Antiphospholipid antibodies, implicated in adverse pregnancy sequelae, come under closer scrutiny in terms of management and correlation with outcome. Studies defining a need for a strict diet for optimal neonatal outcome are presented regarding maternal phenylketonuria. Coagulopathies including protein C deficiency and deep venous thrombosis are reviewed for their impact on pregnancy. Uncommon disorders including cerebrovascular accidents, ureteric obstruction, and myocardial infarction are discussed in relation to management and outcome in pregnancy.