Although it is generally accepted that antenatal corticosteroids reduce neonatal complications after preterm labor, it is unclear at what gestational age this effect starts to occur. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to determine the effects of antenatal corticosteroids given to women at risk of preterm birth <26 weeks' gestation. Two reviewers independently searched electronic databases and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials including women at imminent birth at a gestational age <26 weeks. Nine randomized trials were included. Meta-analyses and meta-regression of trials including participants with a lower gestational age revealed no significant reduction of neonatal mortality and morbidity in the corticosteroid group as compared with nonintervention, in contrast to clear evidence of beneficial effects in trials including women given corticosteroids at a later gestational age. A gestational age-dependent effect of antenatal corticosteroids on neonatal outcomes with lesser treatment benefits in patients <26 weeks' gestational age appears to exist. There is no evidence from randomized controlled trials to support or refute the recommendation of administrating antenatal corticosteroids to women at risk of preterm birth <26 weeks' gestation.
An association between sPTD and unfavorable lipids and cardiovascular biochemical risk factors was not established. The higher levels of glucose in the sPTD group might be due to increased insulin resistance, which is associated with a higher risk of sPTD.
in echogenicity between placental parts. At 34 weeks C-section was performed. Boy A (donor) 1750 g, AS 9/9, Hb 7.7, Ht 0.40, required blood transfusion. Boy B (recipient) 2100 g, AS 9/9. Hb 15.4, Ht 0.71. Examination of the placenta showed marked differences in maturation of placental parts with hydropic villi in area of twin A. There was a single AV-anastomosis from A to B. Conclusion: The sonographic finding of an echogenic placental part at the donor side is indicative of TAPS. We suggest this finding must lead to a high index of suspicion of TAPS, warrants intensified fetal monitoring and consideration of delivery as soon as fetal lung maturity is confirmed.
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