Maternal Serum Analytes as Predictors of Fetal Growth Restriction with Different Degrees of Placental Vascular Dysfunction

Abstract

Abnormal levels of maternal serum analytes have been associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preeclampsia secondary to placental vascular dysfunction. Accurately identifying the FGR fetuses at highest risk for adverse outcomes remains challenging. Placental function can be assessed by Doppler analysis of the maternal and fetal circulation. Although the combination of multiple abnormal maternal serum analytes and abnormal Doppler findings is strongly associated with adverse outcomes, the predictive value remains too low to be used as a screening test in a low-risk population. Stratification of cases based on the severity of Doppler abnormalities may improve predictive models.

Keywords: Absent or reverse end-diastolic velocity; Doppler velocimetry; Fetal growth restriction; Placental pathology; Placental vascular dysfunction; Serum analytes.