WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS IS ASSOCIATED WITH ASYMMETRIC FETAL GROWTH RESTRICTION
- A. Breech presentation
- B. Chronic hypertension ✓
- C. Gestational diabetes mellitus
- D. Chromosomal abnormalities
Asymmetric fetal growth restriction is a condition where the fetus fails to grow at a normal rate, resulting in an asymmetrical appearance with certain body parts being smaller than expected. Chronic hypertension, which refers to high blood pressure that was present before pregnancy or diagnosed before 20 weeks of gestation, is associated with asymmetric fetal growth restriction.
Chronic hypertension can lead to reduced blood flow through the placenta, affecting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. This compromised blood flow can result in restricted fetal growth, particularly affecting the abdomen and head circumference while sparing other body parts. Asymmetric growth restriction is often identified through ultrasound measurements that show a lag in abdominal circumference compared to other parameters like head circumference and femur length.
In other words, Chronic hypertension is a risk factor for placental insufficiency, which can result in asymmetric fetal growth restriction. Placental insufficiency occurs when the placenta is unable to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to support the fetus’s growth adequately. This can lead to restricted growth, especially in the abdominal region, as the body prioritizes blood flow to essential organs such as the brain.
In contrast, conditions like breech presentation, gestational diabetes mellitus, and chromosomal abnormalities are not typically associated with asymmetric fetal growth restriction.
- A. Breech presentation: Breech presentation refers to a situation where the baby’s buttocks or feet are positioned to be delivered first. While breech presentation can impact the mode of delivery, it is not directly linked to asymmetric fetal growth restriction.
- C. Gestational diabetes mellitus: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. While GDM can have implications for both maternal and fetal health, it is not specifically associated with asymmetric fetal growth restriction.
- D. Chromosomal abnormalities: Chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome can affect fetal development in various ways but do not specifically cause asymmetric growth restriction.
Therefore, among the options provided, chronic hypertension is the condition most closely associated with asymmetric fetal growth restriction.
