The purpose of this study to determine if measurement of maternal serum biomarkers and evaluation of the placenta by ultrasound can improve prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
The placenta is known to play a vital role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Placental dysfunction is believed to be a driving factor in a variety of adverse obstetric outcomes, including fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Advances in 3D ultrasound have allowed for measurement of placental volumes during pregnancy. It may be that quantitative assessment of early placental growth can help identify pregnancies at risk for adverse outcome. Furthermore, various novel serum analytes have been proposed as predictors of adverse outcome. The investigators seek to prospectively measure placental volume and diameter at 11-14 weeks and 18-24 weeks to determine if placental growth can predict adverse outcome. In addition, the investigators seek to investigate the relationship between placental growth and serum levels of various biomarkers to see if improved detection of adverse outcome can be achieved.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
1,043
University of Pennsylvania Health System
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Small for gestational birth weight (SGA-dichotomous)
Neonatal weight and length are recorded at birth. This information will be retrieved from the medical record post partum.
Time frame: from 11-14 weeks in pregnancy until delivery (approximately 40 weeks)
Includes a composite adverse outcome defined by any of the following: SGA, pre-eclampsia, or perinatal death.
Information about pregnancy outcomes will be retrieved from the maternal and neonatal medical record post partum.
Time frame: post partum
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.