Postnatal persistence of cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in late fetal growth restriction

Minerva Obstet Gynecol. 2021 Aug;73(4):471-481. doi: 10.23736/S2724-606X.21.04823-5. Epub 2021 May 5.

Abstract

Fetal growth restriction is one of the most common obstetric complications, affecting 7-10% of all pregnancies. Affected fetuses are exposed to an adverse environment in utero during a critical time of development and may face long-term health consequences such as increased cardiovascular risk in adulthood. Growth restricted fetuses develop remodeled hearts with signs of systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Cardiac adaptations are more evident in early severe cases, but also present in late onset fetal growth restriction. Cardiovascular remodeling persists into postnatal life, from the neonatal period to adolescence, encompassing an increased susceptibility to adult disease. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on cardiovascular programming associated to fetal growth restriction, its postnatal consequences and potential strategies to reduce their cardiovascular risk.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cardiovascular System*
  • Female
  • Fetal Growth Retardation*
  • Fetus
  • Heart
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Ventricular Remodeling