No abstract

Introduction. Neonatal hypoglycemia is a complication of gestational diabetes mellitus. Few studies have been conducted to support a systematic screening in the first hours of life of this population group. Objectives. To assess the association between the treatment administered to the mother (diet vs. insulin) and the development of hypoglycemia, and to identify associated risk factors. Population and methods. Observational, analytical, and retrospective study carried out at the Buenos Aires and San Justo maternal centers of a general, tertiary care hospital between 01-01-2017 and 12-31-2018. The incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia (≤ 47 mg/dL) based on the management of maternal diabetes was estimated and a multivariate analysis was done to assess related factors. Results. A total of 195 patients were included. No statistical difference was found in the incidence of hypoglycemia based on the treatment administered to the mother (45.3% vs. 39.7%; p = 0.45) and no associated risk factors were identified. Once the cutoff point was changed to ≤ 40 mg/dL, no differences were found in the incidence either (23.4% versus 19%, p = 0.48); however, patients with hypoglycemia had a significantly higher hematocrit level and a lower prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding upon discharge. Multivariate analysis showed an independent association between a high birth weight and hypoglycemia, requiring correction. Conclusions. The incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia in the studied population did not vary based on the treatment received by the mother. This study supports the control of glycemia in these infants in daily practice.