Umbilical cord and preeclampsia

Abstract

Introduction: Preeclampsia is associated with abnormalities in the umbilical cord in several ways: morphological, biochemical and functional. Alteration in blood vessels of the placenta, decidua and circulatory system of the fetus might be related to factors that cause preeclampsia and may be associated with alterations of the umbilical cord.

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between each type of umbilical cord abnormality and the different subtypes of hypertensive gestational disorders.

Methods: We conducted a prospective study on consecutive autopsies and its placentas, looking for abnormalities in the umbilical cord's features and their clinical associations.

Results: Umbilical cord abnormalities including length, diameter, insertion, entanglements, knots and coils were associated with maternal gestational hypertension.

Conclusion: In women with gestational hypertension, umbilical cord abnormalities are associated with fetal and neonatal consequences.

Keywords: HELLP syndrome; Placenta; eclampsia; gestational hypertension; pregnancy.