Evaluating the predictive value of fetal Doppler indices and neonatal
outcome in late-onset preeclampsia with severe features: A
cross-sectional study in a resource-limited setting
Abstract
Background: Preeclampsia constitutes a major health problem with
substantial maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Purpose: The
aim of this study was to detect the diagnostic efficacy of fetal Doppler
in predicting adverse outcomes in severe late onset preeclampsia (LOP).
Methods: A prospective study was conducted among childbearing women who
presented with severe LOP and matched controls. Umbilical artery (UA)
and middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler indices including pulsatility
index (PI), resistance index (RI), systolic/diastolic ratio (S/D) and
cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) were measured. Results: All UA indices were
significantly higher in the case group compared to the controls (p
0.001). UA PI and RI were significantly correlated with all neonatal
adverse outcomes except cord pH status (p 0.05). Abnormal CPR was the
most sensitive index that positively correlated with intrauterine growth
retardation (IUGR), low 5- minute Apgar score and neonatal intensive
care unit admission (79 %, 72.8 % and 73.3 %, respectively). In the
same context, Abnormal UA PI and RI represented the most specific tool
for predicting IUGR, low 1- and 5- minutes Apgar score with PPV values
were 52 %, 87 % and 57 %, respectively. Discussion: Doppler flow
ultrasound has emerged as a non-invasive tool for fetomaternal
surveillance in high risk pregnancies and prediction of
adverse-pregnancy outcomes particularly in a limited-resource settings.
Conclusion: In severe LOP, UA Doppler remains the preferential indicator
for adverse birth outcomes with CPR is the best index that could be
solely used for predicting such outcome.