Correlation of Placental Morphological Changes with Fetal Outcome in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a common pregnancy complication associated with significant maternal and fetal risks. The placental abnormalities caused by PIH, such as infarctions, villous edema, and fibrinoid necrosis, are believed to affect fetal development and lead to adverse outcomes like low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and neonatal complications. This study aimed to explore the correlation between placental morphological changes and fetal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by PIH.

Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted, including 30 women diagnosed with PIH and 30 women with normal pregnancies as the control group. Placental morphological changes, such as infarctions, villous edema, and fibrinoid necrosis, were examined post-delivery. Fetal outcomes, including birth weight, Apgar scores, and neonatal complications, were recorded. Statistical analyses, including Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis, were performed to assess the relationships between placental changes and fetal outcomes.

Results: The study found significant correlations between placental infarctions and reduced birth weight (r = -0.72, p < 0.01), villous edema and lower Apgar scores (r = -0.65, p < 0.05), and fibrinoid necrosis with neonatal complications (r = 0.80, p < 0.01). Placental weight was positively correlated with fetal birth weight (r = 0.65, p < 0.05). Regression analyses indicated that placental infarctions and placental weight were significant predictors of fetal birth weight, while fibrinoid necrosis predicted neonatal complications.

Conclusion: This study highlights the significant role of placental morphological changes in predicting fetal outcomes in PIH pregnancies. Placental infarctions, villous edema, and fibrinoid necrosis were identified as key markers of poor fetal growth, low Apgar scores, and neonatal complications. Early detection of these placental abnormalities through regular monitoring could help in better management of PIH pregnancies and improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Keywords: Pregnancy-induced hypertension, placental infarctions, villous edema, fibrinoid necrosis, fetal outcomes, birth weight, Apgar scores, neonatal complications.