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To calculate the accuracy (A) and establish the best cutoff value for ophthalmic artery (OA) Doppler velocimetry indexes in patients diagnosed with preeclampsia (PE), compared with healthy pregnant women.This prospective experimental study enrolled 268 women: 133 with PE and 135 healthy pregnant women. All patients were evaluated by OA Doppler sonography, bilaterally, to assess their pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), peak systolic velocity (PVS), second peak systolic velocity (P2), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and peak ratio (PR). Means were compared using Student'sROC curve analysis showed that P2 and PR were superior to the other parameters for PE diagnosis. We tested two cutoff values: (1) using PR ≥0.70, obtained A: 88.72%, S: 81.95%, and Sp: 95.48% and (2) using PR ≥0.75, and A: 86.24%, S: 74.43%, and Sp: 99.24%. By adopting P2 ≥ 21.5 cm/s, we obtained A: 87.59%, S: 84.96%, and Sp: 90.22% and when the cutoff point was P2 ≥ 22 cm/s, there was a slight decrease in A to 86.46% and S to 81.20%, with Sp: 91.89.3%.Ophthalmic artery Doppler demonstrated to be an effective and high-performance imaging method for the diagnosis of PE and the indexes P2 and PR demonstrated superior accuracy to the other Doppler parameters assessed. Higher performance occurred when the cutoff values with greater specificity were adopted, PR ≥ 0.75 and P2 ≥ 22 cm/s, considering that the proposed OA Doppler is to be a complementary method for preeclampsia.

Background: Induction of labour is one of the most common obstetric interventions globally. Balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins are widely used to ripen the cervix in labour induction. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety profiles of these two induction methods. Methods: We did an individual participant data meta-analysis comparing balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins for cervical ripening before labour induction. We systematically identified published and unpublished randomised controlled trials that completed data collection between March 19, 2019, and May 1, 2021, by searching the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and PubMed. Further trials done before March 19, 2019, were identified through a recent Cochrane review. Data relating to the combined use of the two methods were not included, only data from women with a viable, singleton pregnancy were analysed, and no exclusion was made based on parity or membrane status. We contacted authors of individuals trials and participant-level data were harmonised and recoded according to predefined definitions of variables. Risk of bias was assessed with the ROB2 tool. The primary outcomes were caesarean delivery, indication for caesarean delivery, a composite adverse perinatal outcome, and a composite adverse maternal outcome. We followed the intention-to-treat principle for the main analysis. The primary meta-analysis used two-stage random-effects models and the sensitivity analysis used one-stage mixed models. All models were adjusted for maternal age and parity. This meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020179924). Findings: Individual participant data were available from 12 studies with a total of 5460 participants. Balloon catheters, compared with vaginal prostaglandins, did not lead to a significantly different rate of caesarean delivery (12 trials, 5414 women; crude incidence 27·0%; adjusted OR [aOR] 1·09, 95% CI 0·95–1·24; I2=0%), caesarean delivery for failure to progress (11 trials, 4601 women; aOR 1·20, 95% CI 0·91–1·58; I2=39%), or caesarean delivery for fetal distress (10 trials, 4441 women; aOR 0·86, 95% CI 0·71–1·04; I2=0%). The composite adverse perinatal outcome was lower in women who were allocated to balloon catheters than in those allocated to vaginal prostaglandins (ten trials, 4452 neonates, crude incidence 13·6%; aOR 0·80, 95% CI 0·70–0·92; I2=0%). There was no significant difference in the composite adverse maternal outcome (ten trials, 4326 women, crude incidence 22·7%; aOR 1·02, 95% CI 0·89–1·18; I2=0%). Interpretation: In induction of labour, balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins have comparable caesarean delivery rates and maternal safety profiles, but balloon catheters lead to fewer adverse perinatal events. Funding: Australian National Health and Medical Research Council and Monash Health Emerging Researcher Fellowship.

Background There is increasing interest in the development of newborn screening tests to identify children at risk of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in order to provide these children with early intervention. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) has emerged as a potential universal newborn screening candidate. Methods The aim of this report was to present the results of a study designed to compare PEth levels in 1,140 postpartum women and their newborn infants in Montevideo, Uruguay, and Sao Paulo, Brazil. Self-report alcohol use during pregnancy data was collected, along with both maternal and newborn dried blood spot samples for PEth analysis. Results The average age and parity of the women in the sample were 26 years of age and 2.3 pregnancies. For the Uruguay sample (n = 611), 45.8% of postpartum women had PEth levels ≥ 8 ng/ml with a mean positive PEth of 43.6 ng/ml. In contrast, 86.8% of the newborns had PEth levels ≥ 8 ng/ml, with a mean positive PEth of 77.4 ng/ml. For the Brazil sample (n = 529), 33.2% of women had PEth levels ≥ 8 ng/ml with a mean positive PEth of 31 ng/ml. In contrast, 76.9% of the Brazil newborns had PEth levels ≥ 8 ng/ml and 43.9% with a mean positive PEth of 61.1 ng/ml. PEth levels were significantly higher in newborns compared with their postpartum mothers in both the Uruguay and Brazil samples. Self-reported third-trimester alcohol was 6% in the Uruguay sample and 9.1% in the Brazil sample compared with positive maternal PEth levels in 45.8% and 33.2%, respectively. Conclusions Clinicians may want to consider newborn PEth screening in high-risk populations where prenatal alcohol use is common. The mechanism underlying significantly higher PEth levels in newborns compared with their mothers is not known.

Hypertensive syndromes in pregnancy, such as hemorrhagic and infectious conditions, are largely responsible for most maternal deaths in the world. It is estimated that chronic hypertension (CH) in pregnancy complicates about 6–8% of pregnancies, which can be aggravated when overlapping preeclampsia (PE) in 13–40% of cases. Differentiated prenatal care is a big step toward achieving efficient preventive and therapeutic aspects. Special attention should be paid to weight gain, uterine height, edema, and correct BP measurement, since such measures may lead to suspicion of complications in this group of patients. Hypertensive patients should have their routine of individualized consultations.

Objective To describe the clinical experience with the B-Lynch technique in the management of postpartum hemorrhage as well as the factors related to the indication of the technique and to present the success rates of the application of the B-Lynch technique. Methods Observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, and analytical study. Patient data was obtained through the study of medical records. The study population comprised of patients who underwent hemostatic suture using the B-Lynch technique, including 104 patients within the period from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2019. Results Of the total of 104 patients, 82.7% did not present any complications. Blood transfusion and intensive care unit admission were the most prevalent complications, with 13.5% and 15.4%, respectively. Only 1% of the patients had puerperal and surgical site infections. The factors most related to the application of the technique were the presence of previous cesarean section (30.8%), use of oxytocin (16.3%), and pre-eclampsia (11.6%). Puerperal hysterectomy was performed in 4.8% of the patients due to failure of the method. Conclusion The clinical experience with the B-Lynch technique was satisfactory since it presented few complications, with excellent results in hemorrhagic control. Previous cesarean section, the use of oxytocin, and preeclampsia stood out as factors related to the indication of the application of the technique, and the success rate in controlling postpartum hemorrhage was 95.2%. Resumo Objetivo Descrever a experiência clínica com a técnica de B-Lynch no manejo da hemorragia pós-parto e os fatores relacionados à indicação da técnica bem como apresentar as taxas de sucesso da aplicação da técnica de B-lynch. Métodos Estudo observacional, retrospectivo, de corte transversal e analítico. Os dados foram obtidos por estudo de prontuário. A população do estudo foi constituída de pacientes submetidas à sutura hemostática com a técnica de B-Lynch, sendo incluídas 104 pacientes dentro do período de 01 de janeiro de 2005 a 31 de dezembro de 2019. Resultados Do total de 104 pacientes, 82,7% não apresentaram qualquer complicação. A transfusão de sangue e a internação na UTI foram as complicações mais prevalentes, com 13,5% e 15,4%, respectivamente. Apenas 1% teve infecção puerperal e do sítio cirúrgico. Os fatores mais relacionados com a aplicação da técnica foram a presença de cesárea anterior (30,8%), uso de ocitocina (16,3%) e pré-eclâmpsia (11,6%). A histerectomia puerperal foi realizada em 4,8% das pacientes por falha do método. Conclusão A experiência clínica com a técnica de B-Lynch foi satisfatória, pois apresentou poucas complicações, com excelentes resultados no controle hemorrágico. A cesárea anterior, o uso de ocitocina e a pré-eclâmpsia se destacaram como fatores relacionados à indicação da aplicação da técnica. A taxa de sucesso avaliada foi de 95,2%.

The present report describes the case of a 31-year-old primigravida, with dichorionic twins at 31 weeks. She presented with history of myalgia, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort. No flu-like symptoms as fever or cough. She was not aware of exposure to COVID-19. Normal blood pressure and O2 saturation. Laboratory tests showed platelet count of 218,000 mm3, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 558 IU and serum creatinine 2.3 mg/dl. Doppler ultrasound in one twin was compatible with brain sparing. Partial hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome was the hypothesis, and a cesarean section was performed. On day 2, the white-cell count reached 33,730, with decreased consciousness and mild respiratory distress. Tomography revealed both lungs with ground-glass opacities. Swab for COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was positive. Thrombocytopenia in patients with COVID-19 appears to be multifactorial, similar to what occurs in preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. We assume that the synergism of these pathophysiological mechanisms could accelerate the compromise of maternal conditions and could be a warning to the obstetric practice.

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a severe disorder that affects up to 8% of all pregnancies and represents an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The screening of the disease is a subject of studies, but the complexity and uncertainties regarding its etiology make this objective a difficult task. In addition, the costs related to screening protocols, the heterogeneity of the most affected populations and the lack of highly effective prevention methods reduce the potential of current available algorithms for screening. Thus, the National Specialized Commission of Hypertension in Pregnancy of the Brazilian Association of Gynecology and Obstetrics Federation (Febrasgo, in the Portuguese acronym) (NSC Hypertension in Pregnancy of the Febrasgo) considers that there are no screening algorithms to be implemented in the country to date and advocates that Aspirin and calcium should be widely used.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T12:40:21Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2021-07-15T14:36:35Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0100-72032021000100061.pdf: 351132 bytes, checksum: ec2e22a997ed83c899edfdc67368253f (MD5) Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FEBRASGO) Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a severe disorder that affects up to 8% of all pregnancies and represents an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The screening of the disease is a subject of studies, but the complexity and uncertainties regarding its etiology make this objective a difficult task. In addition, the costs related to screening protocols, the heterogeneity of the most affected populations and the lack of highly effective prevention methods reduce the potential of current available algorithms for screening. Thus, the National Specialized Commission of Hypertension in Pregnancy of the Brazilian Association of Gynecology and Obstetrics Federation (Febrasgo, in the Portuguese acronym) (NSC Hypertension in Pregnancy of the Febrasgo) considers that there are no screening algorithms to be implemented in the country to date and advocates that Aspirin and calcium should be widely used. Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu Med Sch, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Uberlandia, Fac Med, Dept Obstet & Gynecol, Uberlandia, MG, Brazil Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Med, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil Pontificia Univ Catolica Rio Grande do Sul, Gynecol & Obstet Training Ctr, Sch Med, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Ctr Univ Lusiada, Dept Tocoginecol, Santos, SP, Brazil Pontificia Univ Catolica Sao Paulo, Fac Med, Dept Obstet & Gynecol, Sorocaba, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Rio Grande do Sul, Fac Med, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Univ Estadual Campinas, Fac Med Sci, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Campinas, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Minas Gerais, Fac Med, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista Med, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu Med Sch, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Botucatu, SP, Brazil

Introduction Progressive proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis characterize chronic allograft nephropathy. Podocytes are fundamental cells for maintaining the functionality of glomerular filtration barrier. Failure to achieve this task due to reduced podocyte number and results in progressive glomerular dysfunction, causing proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis and ultimately leading to end-stage kidney disease. Assessment of podocyturia and its correlation with other renal parameters could help with the diagnosis and definition of prognosis of the glomerulopathies, thus contributing to risk reduction. Objective To evaluate podocyturia and others renal parameters as functional markers in pregnant women with kidney grafts. Methods In this cross-sectional and prospective study, 43 pregnant women with kidney grafts had their Mid-stream urine samples collected to determine proteinuria, including retinol-binding protein (enzyme immunoassay using monoclonalantibodies), albumin/creatinine ratio (immunoturbidimetry), protein/creatinine ratio (the alkaline picrate colorimetric method), and podocyturia (indirect immunofluorescence). Results 43 women who got pregnant after renal transplantation were included. Podocyturia was not significantly correlated with other renal function markers. A gradual increase was observed in the following parameters during pregnancy and puerperium: serum creatinine levels (P Conclusion Proteinuria, urinary protein/creatinine ratio, and retinol-binding protein levels were elevated in patients with preeclampsia. Proteinuria (or more specifically, urinary protein/creatinine ratio) and albumin/creatinine ratio has also used as a marker of CKD progression. We observed that urinary podocyte excretion occurs in pregnant women with kidney transplant. Using these markers to assess renal function during pregnancy may be clinically useful for early diagnosis and follow-up of glomerular injury, eventually preeclampsia. It may be also associated to its severity or activity.

The authors review hypertensive disease during pregnancy with an academic and practical view, and using the best evidence available. This disease, which is the most important clinical disease in Brazilian pregnant women, may have its incidence reduced with prevention through the use of calcium and aspirin in pregnant women at risk. Previously, it was a disease that presented with hypertension with proteinuria, but it has now been classified with new clinical parameters besides proteinuria. Morbidity and mortality should be reduced in a continental country such as Brazil using protocols for the early treatment of complications by calculating severe outcomes in preeclampsia. The early treatment of acute hypertension, use of magnesium sulfate and early hospitalization in cases of preeclampsia are concepts to pursue the reduction of our pregnant women's mortality.

For hypertensive women in CHIPS (Control of Hypertension in Pregnancy Study), we assessed whether the maternal benefits of tight control could be achieved, while minimizing any potentially negative effect on fetal growth, by delaying initiation of antihypertensive therapy until later in pregnancy. For the 981 women with nonsevere, chronic or gestational hypertension randomized to less-tight (target diastolic blood pressure, 100 mm Hg), or tight (target, 85 mm Hg) control, we used mixed-effects logistic regression to examine whether the effect of less-tight (versus tight) control on major outcomes was dependent on gestational age at randomization, adjusting for baseline factors as in the primary analysis and including an interaction term between gestational age at randomization and treatment allocation. Gestational age was considered categorically (quartiles) and continuously (linear or quadratic form), and the optimal functional form selected to provide the best fit to the data based on the Akaike information criterion. Randomization before (but not after) 24 weeks to less-tight (versus tight) control was associated with fewer babies with birth weight P interaction =0.005), but more preterm birth ( P interaction =0.043), and no effect on perinatal death or high-level neonatal care >48 hours ( P interaction =0.354). For the mother, less-tight (versus tight) control was associated with more severe hypertension at all gestational ages but particularly so before 28 weeks ( P interaction =0.076). In women with nonsevere, chronic, or gestational hypertension, there seems to be no gestational age at which less-tight (versus tight) control is the preferred management strategy to optimize maternal or perinatal outcomes. Clinical Trial Registration— URL: https://www.isrctn.com . Unique identifier: ISRCTN71416914.

BACKGROUND: Empathy in the patient-provider relationship is associated with important outcomes in healthcare practice. Our aim was to translate and validate Warmometer, a visual tool for assessing warmth in patient-provider relationships, for use in Brazilian Portuguese. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted at an antenatal clinic of a public university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: The instrument was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and culturally adapted. It was tested for reliability and validity among 32 pregnant women, between June 2015 and January 2016. To assess construct validity, it was correlated with the Consultation and Relational Empathy (CARE) scale (gold standard for patient-provider relationships) and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). RESULTS: The translated version of Warmometer had good face and content validity, low intra-observer reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC: 0.224; 95% confidence interval, CI -0.589 to 0.621;P = 0.242) and high inter-observer reproducibility (ICC: 0.952; 95% CI 0.902 to 0.977; P < 0.001). There was a strong correlation between Warmometer and CARE (r = 0.632) and a weak correlation between Warmometer and IRI (r = 0.105). CONCLUSIONS: Warmometer was translated, culturally adapted and validated for use in Brazilian Portuguese. The translated version is a reliable tool for assessing the degree of empathy perceived by the patient in a patient-provider relationship.

We report the case of a 20-year-old patient, primigravida, with twin monochorionic pregnancy, with a weight gain of 6 kg in one week and increased blood pressure. During the ultrasound diagnostic investigation, placental edema and hydrops were identified in both fetuses, which, in association with maternal anasarca and pressure control, constitute the triad for mirror syndrome, also known as triple edema. In addition to being hydropic, one of the twins was an acardiac fetus, which is a rare combination of events. Gestation was terminated at 22 weeks and five days because of high maternal risk. The patient progressed with clinical and laboratory improvement. Our study is relevant in that it documents an extremely rare case and discusses relevant aspects of the symptoms and diagnosis of mirror syndrome. It also systematically reviews the condition.

Pregnancy is a cardiometabolic and renal stress test for women, primarily when associated with hypertension syndrome, which can have deleterious effects in the long term. We undertook this study to make a long-term evaluation on these women.A retrospective cohort study was conducted to investigate voluntary women who had pregnancy-induced hypertension syndrome versus normal pregnancy.We evaluated a total of 85 women, divided in case (n = 25) and control (n = 60) groups, by clinical, anthropometric and epidemiological profiles, general, metabolic and renal tests, and risk stratification for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).The case group showed a higher incidence of hypertension (P = .003), shorter period between its diagnosis and end of pregnancy (P .001) and lower age at diagnosis (P = .033); higher weight (P .001), body mass index (BMI) (P .001), waist-to-height ratio (p = .001) and abdominal circumference (P .001); higher fat percentage (P = .004) and weight to lose (P .001) as measured by bioimpedance; lower estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation (P = .021), greater difference between estimated vascular age and real age (P = .008) according to Framingham Risk Score (2008) and higher frequency of metabolic syndrome (P .001).Women who had pregnancy-induced hypertension syndrome were found with a higher incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome and hypertension, earlier onset of hypertension, higher estimated vascular age and lower eGFR. These findings reinforce the importance of investigating the history of hypertension syndrome in pregnancy, which should be considered an indicator to be followed long term after childbirth.

Objective To evaluate whether the presence of maternal blood pressure reduces the risks of morbidity, perinatal mortality and morbidity at 24 months of age in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs) compared with a control group. Methods A retrospective, observational, case-control study. Total 49 VLBWIs were allocated to the study group, called the maternal arterial hypertension group (AHG), and matched with 44 in the control group (CG). The infants were assessed during hospitalization and at 12 and 24 months corrected age at a specialized clinic. For the assessment of growth, the World Health Organization (WHO) Anthro software (Geneva, 2006) was used, and for the psychomotor assessment, the Denver II test was used. Results In relation to the antenatal variables, the infants of the AHG had more centralized circulation assessed by Doppler, received more corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate, and were born by cesarean section more frequently. In terms of the postnatal and in-hospital outcomes, the AHG had a higher gestational age at birth (30.7 versus 29.6 weeks) and a lower frequency of 5-minute Apgar scores of less than 7 (26.5% versus 52.3%). The CG had a higher rate of pulmonary dysplasia (30.2% versus 8.3%). There were no differences in terms of hospital mortality, complications, somatic growth and functional problems at 24 months of corrected age. Conclusion The presence of maternal hypertension, especially preeclampsia, was not a protective factor against morbidity, mortality and evolution in VLBWIs aged up to 24 months. Therefore, the clinical practice should be focused on prolonging the pregnancy for as long as possible in these conditions as well. Resumo Objetivo Avaliar se a presença de hipertensão arterial materna reduz os riscos de morbidade, mortalidade perinatal e morbidade aos 24 meses de idade em recém-nascidos de muito baixo peso (RNMBPs) em relação a um grupo controle. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo, observacional, caso controle. Foram alocados 49 RNMBPs no grupo de estudo, chamado de grupo com hipertensão arterial materna (GHA), e 44 no grupo controle (GC), avaliados durante a internação hospitalar e aos 12 e 24 meses de idade corrigida em ambulatório especializado. Para avaliação do crescimento, foi adotado o programa WHO Anthro, e o teste de desenvolvimento de Denver II para a avaliação psicomotora. Resultados Em relação às variáveis antenatais, fetos do GHA apresentaram mais centralização da circulação avaliada pelo Doppler, receberam mais corticosteroides e sulfato de magnésio, além de terem nascido mais por cesáreas. Quanto aos desfechos pós-natais e durante a internação, o GHA teve idade gestacional de nascimento maior (30,7 × 29,6 semanas) e menor frequência de boletim de Apgar no quinto minuto inferior a 7 (26,5% x 52,3%). Entre as complicações avaliadas, o GC teve maior frequência de displasia pulmonar (30,2 × 8,3%). Não houve diferenças em relação à mortalidade hospitalar, ao crescimento somático e às complicações funcionais aos 24 meses de idade corrigida. Conclusão A presença de hipertensão arterial materna, em especial a pré-eclâmpsia, não foi fator de proteção quanto à morbidade, mortalidade e evolução até os 24 meses de idade em RNMBPs. Desta forma, a prática clínica deve ser voltada para garantir o maior prolongamento possível da gestação também nestas condições.

Introduction: The potential risks related to drug exposure during pregnancy represent a vast chapter in modern obstetrics and data regarding the safety of antihypertensive drugs during pregnancy are relatively scarce. Case report: A 37-year-old patient discovered her fifth pregnancy at our hospital after 26 weeks and 4 days of gestation. She reported a history of hypertension and was currently being treated with Losartan. Hospitalization was recommended for the patient and further evaluation of fetal vitality was performed. On the fourth day an ultrasound was performed, resulting in a severe oligohydramnios, fetal centralization and abnormal ductus venosus. After 36 hours, the newborn died. Pathologic evaluation: At autopsy, the skullcap had large fontanels and deficient ossification. The kidneys were slightly enlarged. A microscopic examination detected underdevelopment of the tubules and the presence of some dilated lumens. Immunohistochemical detection of epithelial membrane antigen was positive. Immunoreactivity of CD 15 was also assayed to characterize the proximal tubules, and lumen collapse was observed in some regions. Discussion: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor antagonists (ARAs) are among the most widely prescribed drugs for hypertension. They are often used by hypertensive women who are considering become pregnant. While their fetal toxicity in the second or third trimesters has been documented, their teratogenic effect during the first trimester has only recently been demonstrated. Conclusion: Constant awareness by physicians and patients should be encouraged, particularly in regard to the prescription of antihypertensive drugs in women of childbearing age who are or intend to become pregnant.

Objective To assess correlations between maternal serum levels of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors with uterine perfusion in women with early- compared with late-onset preeclampsia, and in healthy pregnant women. Design Case-control study. Setting Antenatal care clinic located within a hospital (Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil). Population We enrolled 54 preeclamptic and 54 healthy control women who were coming for routine ultrasound at 28–36 weeks' gestation. Methods All participants had uterine artery and umbilical Doppler studies and a blood sample to assess maternal serum levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1, soluble endoglin, adiponectin and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. All angiogenic factors were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Main outcome measures Levels of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors in maternal serum, and uterine artery Doppler findings. Results Concentrations of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and soluble endoglin were significantly higher in preeclamptic than control women (p

Introduction Hypertension in pregnancy, especially preeclampsia (PE), may result in maternal and perinatal complications and the best form of treatment is the interruption of gestation through the safest method for the mother and baby. In Brazil, there are high rates of Cesarean (CS) among patients with PE. Would it be possible to change these routines to reduce risks and costs associated with the actual patterns of care? Objective To assess the type of delivery in patients with PE in a public maternity in Sao Paulo (Brazil) and propose changes in this pattern. Methodology Retrospective Cohort of 117 patients with PE treated in a reference center (MEVNC) in 2016 and 2017. Maternal variables were assessed and related to childbirth and perinatal period. Baseline characteristics and labor and delivery characteristics according to PE early and late were analyzed. Results The average maternal age was 29.0 years, 51.3 being nulliparous and the BMI average was 29.1. Mild PE was present in 85.0%. The overall cesarean rate was 32.0%. Among patients with early PE the rate was 72.0% while in patients with late PE the rate was 77.0%. The reasons for CS were maternal risk in 30.7% and fetal risk in 22.7%. Discussion The overall rate of CS of the institution being on average, 34%. However in patients with PE CS rates are very high. Our results contrast with the literature, when compared with different places. Two aspects could be considered: insecurity related to maternal prognosis and the difficulties of assessing fetal well-being. Two interventions could be tested to modify this pattern: the adoption of the model PIERS for maternal care and fetal monitoring for fetal scalp samples for pH and lactate evaluation. In this way, the introduction of these alternatives could innovate the current standard of clinical practice.

Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) is an anti-angiogenic factor released in higher amounts by preeclamptic placentas and it has been implicated in the endothelial dysfunction observed in the disease. In this study we evaluated if circulating sFlt-1/PlGF ratio is useful to predict adverse outcomes in women with early-onset preeclampsia. This is a cohort study of 88 preeclamptic women with singleton pregnancies at ⩽35weeks of gestation. According to definitions used, adverse outcomes occurred in 46.5% (N=43) of the patients. The median sFlt1/PlGF ratio (25th-75th centile) for all patients evaluated was of 42.26 (13.1-226.1). The median sFlt-1/PlGF ratio among women who had any adverse outcome (N=43) versus no adverse outcomes (N=45) was of 227.6 (80.3-346.1) versus 14.4 (3.35-30.0), (P

Trophoblast proliferation and invasion are controlled by cytokines and growth factors present at the implantation site. Members of the Interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines trigger their effects through activation of intracellular cascades including the Janus Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway. Functions of several STAT molecules in trophoblast cells have been described, but the role of STAT1 remained unclear. Here, potential functions of STAT1 and its activation by Oncostatin M (OSM) have been investigated in an in vitro model. STAT1 expression and phosphorylation were analyzed in human term placenta tissue by immunohistochemistry. HTR-8/SVneo cells (immortalized human extravillous trophoblast cells) were stimulated with OSM, IL-6, IL-11, Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) and Granulocyte Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor. Expression and phosphorylation of STAT1 were analyzed by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Fludarabine and STAT1 siRNA were employed for STAT1 depletion. STAT1 transcriptional activity was evaluated by DNA-binding capacity assay. Cell viability and invasion were assessed by MTS and Matrigel assays, respectively. STAT1 was expressed in villous and extravillous trophoblast cells. Low phosphorylation was detectable exclusively in extravillous trophoblast cells. Only OSM and LIF induced phosphorylation of STAT1 in the in vitro model. Challenge with OSM increased cell invasion but not proliferation. Inhibition of STAT1 by fludarabine treatment or STAT1 siRNA transfection reduced cell viability and invasiveness in presence and absence of OSM. These results indicate the potential involvement of STAT1 in the regulation of trophoblast behavior. Furthermore, STAT 1 functions are more efficiently inhibited by blocking its expression than its phosphorylation.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:34:48Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-01-01 Defects in angiogenesis and mitochondrial function in the placenta contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia; however upstream regulators of these pathways are not known. It has been argued that placental hypoxia secondary to abnormal spiral artery remodeling may play a causal role in the angiogenic and mitochondrial abnormalities noted in preeclampsia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) a surrogate of hypoxia, and soluble fms-tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), a circulating anti-angiogenic factor, and microRNA 210 (miR-210), a microRNA that regulates mitochondrial function, in human placentas from preeclamptic and non-hypertensive pregnancies. We first confirmed a 2.5-fold upregulation of HIF-1 protein in placentas from preeclampsia when compared to non-hypertensive controls. Consistent with prior studies, we also observed a 10-fold upregulated sFlt1 mRNA and 2-fold upregulated miR-210 in preeclamptic tissue. Interestingly, while sFlt1 mRNA correlated with miR-210 in preeclampsia (R-2 = 0.77, p = 0.0004), there were no significant correlations between these molecules and HIF1 expression. We conclude that non-hypoxia pathways may be involved in the abnormal angiogenic and metabolic alterations noted in preeclampsia. Harvard Med Sch, Beth Israel Deaconess Med Ctr, Dept Med, Boston, MA USA Harvard Med Sch, Beth Israel Deaconess Med Ctr, Dept Obstet, Boston, MA USA Harvard Med Sch, Beth Israel Deaconess Med Ctr, Dept Gynecol, Boston, MA USA Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Dept Obstet, Sao Paulo, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Botucatu Med Sch, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Sao Paulo, Brazil Emory Sch Med, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Atlanta, GA USA Sao Paulo State Univ, Botucatu Med Sch, Dept Gynecol & Obstet, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) present in the living environment are thought to have detrimental health effects on the population, with pregnant women and the developing foetus being at highest risk. We report on the levels of selected POPs in maternal blood of 155 delivering women residing in seven regions within the São Paulo State, Brazil.The following selected POPs were measured in the maternal whole blood: 12 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) congeners (IUPAC Nos. 99, 101, 118, 138, 153, 156, 163, 170, 180, 183, 187, 194); dichlordiphenyltrichloroethane p,p′-DDT, diphenyldichloroethylene p,p′-DDE and other pesticides such as hexachlorocyclohexanes (α-HCH, β-HCH, γ-HCH), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), chlordane derivatives cis-chlordane, trans-chlordane, oxy-chlordane, cis-nonachlor and trans-nonachlor.Statistical comparisons between regions were performed only on compounds having concentrations above LOD in 70% of the samples. PCB118 congener was found to be highest in the industrial site (mean 4.97 ng/g lipids); PCB138 congener concentration was highest in the Urban 3 site (mean 4.27 ng/g lipids) and congener PCB153 was highest in the industrial and Urban 3 sites with mean concentration of 7.2 ng/g lipids and 5.89 ng/g lipids respectively. Large differences in levels of p,p′-DDE between regions were observed with the Urban 3 and industrial sites having the highest concentrations of 645 ng/g lipids and 417 ng/g lipids, respectively; β-HCH was found to be highest in the Rural 1 site; the γ-HCH in Rural 1 and industrial; the HCB in the Rural 1 and industrial sites and oxy-chlordane and t-NC in the Rural 2 sites. An association between levels of some contaminants and maternal age and parity was also found. Keywords: Pesticides exposure, Delivering women, Human blood, São Paulo State, Brazil

Purpose This study estimates the prevalence of common mental disorders and the proportion and potential determinants of detection among adolescents attending prenatal care. Methods We recruited 930 consecutive adolescents admitted for obstetric care, of which 457 participants had attended the hospital's prenatal care unit. Common mental disorders were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (version 2.1). A detailed review of prenatal care records was used to identify detection of psychiatric disorders by prenatal healthcare professionals. Results A total of 103 adolescents (22.5%) had some mental disorder but only one-fifth of them had had their psychiatric disorder detected during prenatal care. The most frequent diagnosis using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (version 2.1) was depression (13.5% or 62), but only 21% had been detected. Alcohol and drug dependence were the least common mental disorders (2.4%), but they were the most commonly detected (45.5%). Physical chronic condition increased the likelihood of detecting psychiatric disorder. Conclusion Mental health is not yet recognized as an integral component of practice in prenatal care. Given the potential effect of antenatal psychiatric morbidity on maternal and child outcomes, especially among adolescents, practice needs to be changed and prenatal care professionals trained in the recognition and basic treatment of common mental disorders.

Pré-eclâmpsia é uma síndrome sistêmica caracterizada por intenso estado inflamatório e antiangiogênico. A fisiopatologia da pré-clâmpsia envolve alterações no processo de invasão trofoblástica, com consequente inadequado suprimento sanguíneo uterino e estresse oxidativo do tecido placentário. As alterações placentárias decorrentes desse processo levam à maior produção de sFlt-1, um receptor solúvel para as moléculas de VEGF e PlGF. O sFlt-1 impede com que VEGF e PlGF realizem suas funções na homeostase endotelial, culminando com disfunção dessas células. De uma maneira geral, os processos inflamatórios, de disfunção endotelial e estresse oxidativo estão interligados e agem de maneira sinérgica. Trabalhos recentes têm demonstrado que elevações nas concentrações séricas de sFlt-1 ocorrem 5 a 6 semanas antes das manifestações clínicas da pré-eclâmpsia. Concomitantemente, observa-se queda nas concentrações séricas de PlGF. Sendo assim, as dosagens séricas de sFlt-1 e PlGF têm sido sugeridas para o diagnóstico precoce de pré-eclâmpsia. Ademais, os conhecimentos adquiridos a respeito dos fatores antiangiogênicos proporcionam ainda a possibilidade de novas linhas de pesquisa sobre possíveis terapias para a pré-eclâmpsia. Neste artigo, foram revisados os aspectos inflamatórios e antiangiogênicos envolvidos na fisiopatologia da pré-eclâmpsia. Por fim, foram correlacionados esses aspectos com o risco elevado para doenças cardiovasculares apresentado por essas pacientes ao longo de suas vidas.Preeclampsia is a systemic syndrome characterized by inflammatory and antiangiogenic states. The pathogenesis of preeclampsia involves deficient trophoblast invasion that is responsible for altered uterine blood flow and placental oxidative stress. The damaged placenta produces higher concentrations of sFlt-1, a soluble receptor for VEGF and PlGF that is released in the maternal circulation and is involved in endothelial dysfunction. Actually, all processes involved in inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress are strongly correlated and act in a synergistic way. Recent data have shown that an increase in serum concentrations of sFlt-1 initiates 5 to 6 weeks before the clinical manifestations of preeclampsia and these alterations correlate with a decrease in serum concentrations of PlGF. Therefore, both sFlt-1 and PlGF have been suggested to be useful for an early-diagnosis of preeclampsia. The knowledge about the role of antiangiogenic factors in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia has raised the possibility of a therapy involving these factors.In this article we revisited the pathogenesis of preeclampsia addressing its antiangiogenic and inflammatory states.In conclusion, we correlated these alterations with the higher risk for cardiovascular diseases presented by these women in future life.

Pré-eclâmpsia é uma síndrome sistêmica caracterizada por intenso estado inflamatório e antiangiogênico. A fisiopatologia da pré-clâmpsia envolve alterações no processo de invasão trofoblástica, com consequente inadequado suprimento sanguíneo uterino e estresse oxidativo do tecido placentário. As alterações placentárias decorrentes desse processo levam à maior produção de sFlt-1, um receptor solúvel para as moléculas de VEGF e PlGF. O sFlt-1 impede com que VEGF e PlGF realizem suas funções na homeostase endotelial, culminando com disfunção dessas células. De uma maneira geral, os processos inflamatórios, de disfunção endotelial e estresse oxidativo estão interligados e agem de maneira sinérgica. Trabalhos recentes têm demonstrado que elevações nas concentrações séricas de sFlt-1 ocorrem 5 a 6 semanas antes das manifestações clínicas da pré-eclâmpsia. Concomitantemente, observa-se queda nas concentrações séricas de PlGF. Sendo assim, as dosagens séricas de sFlt-1 e PlGF têm sido sugeridas para o diagnóstico precoce de pré-eclâmpsia. Ademais, os conhecimentos adquiridos a respeito dos fatores antiangiogênicos proporcionam ainda a possibilidade de novas linhas de pesquisa sobre possíveis terapias para a pré-eclâmpsia. Neste artigo, foram revisados os aspectos inflamatórios e antiangiogênicos envolvidos na fisiopatologia da pré-eclâmpsia. Por fim, foram correlacionados esses aspectos com o risco elevado para doenças cardiovasculares apresentado por essas pacientes ao longo de suas vidas.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Preeclampsia and neural tube defects can be prevented during pregnancy. Today, there is level I evidence showing that calcium supplementation during pregnancy may prevent preeclampsia and that use of folic acid may prevent neural tube defects. The aim here was to evaluate the proportion of patients undergoing prenatal follow-up who had received a prescription for calcium and/or folic acid supplementation, and their adherence to the use of these two substances. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at two hospitals in the Greater São Paulo region, Brazil (Faculdade de Medicina da Fundação ABC, Santo André, and "Dr. Mário de Moraes Altenfelder Silva" Municipal Teaching and Maternity Hospital, Vila Nova Cachoeirinha). METHODS: Early primigravidae, late primigravidae and pregnant women with chronic hypertension, diabetes mellitus or kidney disease who had already had their first prenatal consultation were included. RESULTS: Out of 250 pregnant women interviewed, 10.40% had received a prescription for calcium supplementation and 80.76% of them reported taking it in tablet form. Regarding folic acid, 48% of the women said that they had received a prescription for this and 64.16% reported that they had started to use it during the periconceptional period. CONCLUSIONS: Calcium supplementation and periconceptional use of folic acid seem not to be prescribed routinely by physicians. This should motivate the implementation of educational programs for obstetricians on the use of interventions based on the best available evidence.

OBJETIVO: avaliar as características relativas ao atendimento de parturientes bolivianas e seus desfechos em um hospital do município de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: estudo transversal retrospectivo tipo caso-controle, entre dois grupos de gestantes, atendidas no período de 2003 a 2007. O Grupo Estudo incluiu 312 gestantes bolivianas e o Grupo Controle, 314 gestantes brasileiras. Os grupos foram comparados em relação às variáveis demográficas, à ocorrência de intercorrências maternas e às variáveis perinatais. A análise estatística foi feita com o uso do teste do χ2 e, quando necessário, foi aplicada a correção de Yates. RESULTADOS: comparado às parturientes brasileiras, o número de bolivianas que frequentaram o pré-natal foi menor (16,4 versus 5,1%; p < 0,001) e, dentre as que o fizeram, foi maior a porcentagem das que compareceram a menos do que cinco consultas (50 versus 19,3%; pPURPOSE: to evaluate the characteristics regarding care of Bolivian pregnant women and their outcomes in Hospital Municipal Vereador José Storopolli. METHODS: a cross-sectional retrospective case-control study comparing two groups of pregnant women from 2003 to 2007. The Study Group included 312 Bolivian pregnant women and the Control Group, 314 Brazilian women. The groups were compared with respect to demographic variables, the presence of maternal complications and perinatal outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed by χ2 test and, when necessary, by applying Yates' correction. RESULTS: compared to Brazilian mothers, a smaller number of Bolivian women received prenatal care (16.4 versus 5.1%, p

OBJETIVO: comparar a efetividade da sonda e Foley com o uso de misoprostol vaginal para o preparo cervical e indução do parto. MÉTODOS: ensaio clínico randomizado, não cego, realizado entre Janeiro de 2006 a Janeiro de 2008. Foram incluídas 160 gestantes com indicação de indução do parto, divididas em dois grupos: 80 para uso da sonda de Foley e 80 para misoprostol vaginal. Os critérios de inclusão foram: idade gestacional a partir de 37 semanas, feto único, vivo, cefálico e índice de Bishop igual ou menor que 4. Foram excluídas pacientes com cicatriz uterina, ruptura das membranas, peso fetal estimado maior que 4000 g, placenta prévia, corioamnionite e condições que impunham o término imediato da gestação. Os testes estatísticos utilizados foram Mann-Whitney, χ2 de Pearson ou exato de Fischer, sendo considerado significativo se menor que 0,005. RESULTADOS: o misoprostol desencadeou mais vezes o parto de forma espontânea (50,0 versus 15,0% para Foley pPURPOSE: to compare the effectiveness of the Foley balloon with vaginal misoprostol for cervical ripening and labor induction. METHODS: randomized clinical trial, not blind, conducted from January 2006 to January 2008. A total of 160 pregnant women with indication for induction of labor were included and divided into two groups, 80 for Foley and 80 for vaginal misoprostol. Inclusion criteria were: gestational age of 37 weeks or more, a live single fetus with cephalic presentation and a Bishop score of four or less. We excluded patients with a uterine scar, ruptured membranes, estimated fetal weight greater than 4000 g, placenta previa, chorioamnionitis and conditions that imposed the immediate termination of pregnancy. Statistical tests employed were Mann-Whitney, χ2 test or Fisher's exact test, and p value was significant if less than 0.005. RESULTS: misoprostol triggered more frequently spontaneous delivery (50.0 versus 15.0% for Foley, p

Background Extravillous trophoblast cell (EVT) invasion of maternal tissues is critical for successful pregnancy. Decidual factors, including uterine natural killer (uNK) and T cell derived cytokines play a role in regulating this process. Interleukin (IL) 8 has been implicated as a regulator of EVT invasion. Hypothesis uNK cell stimulation of EVT invasion is associated with IL-8 levels. Methods CD8+, total decidual and CD56 + uNK cells (8–10 and 12–14 weeks gestational age) were cultured. IL-8 mRNA and protein levels were determined. IL-8 receptors (IL-8RA and IL-8RB) were localised in first trimester placental bed biopsies. The effect of IL-8 ± IL-8 neutralising antibodies and CD8+ T cell or uNK cell supernatants ± IL-8 neutralising antibodies on EVT invasion was assessed. EVT secreted levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, uPA, PAI-1 and PAI-2 were assessed by substrate zymography or Western Blot. Results High levels of IL-8 protein and mRNA were detected in all samples. IL-8RA and IL-8RB were expressed by EVT. Exogenous IL-8 stimulated EVT invasion in a paracrine manner. uNK cell supernatants, but not CD8+ cell supernatants, stimulated EVT invasion. IL-8 neutralising antibody partially abrogated this uNK cell stimulated invasion. IL-8 increased levels of secreted MMP-2, but did not alter any of the other proteases or protease inhibitors tested. Conclusion uNK cell stimulation of EVT invasion is partially mediated by IL-8. Unstimulated CD8+ T cells do not alter EVT invasion despite secreting similar levels of IL-8 as uNK cells.

Os leiomiomas uterinos caracterizam-se por doença benigna e são evidenciados em 2 a 3% de todas as gestações normais. Destes, cerca de 10% podem apresentar complicações durante a gravidez. Apresentamos um caso de paciente gestante que procurou o pronto-socorro obstétrico na 17ª semana, queixando-se de fortes dores, apresentava palpação abdominal dolorosa e descompressão brusca positiva. À ultrassonografia, apresentava nódulo de mioma medindo 9,1 x 7,7 cm, foi internada, medicada e devido à piora do quadro, submetida a laparotomia exploradora e miomectomia. O seguimento pré-natal se deu sem mais anormalidades, com resolução da gestação na 39ª semana. O recém-nascido pesou 3.315 g com Apgar 9 e 10. Deve-se sempre tentar o tratamento clínico nesses casos, e intervenções cirúrgicas devem ser consideradas para casos selecionados, principalmente na impossibilidade de tratamentos conservadores ou quando o quadro clínico da paciente exige intervenção imediata. Neste caso, a miomectomia mostrou-se eficaz para complicações obstétricas materno-fetais.Uterine leiomyomas are characterized as a benign disease and are observed in 2 to 3% of all normal pregnancies. Out of these, about 10% may present complications during pregnancy. We present a case of a pregnant patient sought emergency obstetric care at the 17th week, complaining of severe pain, presenting with painful abdominal palpation and sudden positive decompression. Ultrasonography revealed a myoma nodule measuring 9.1 x 7.7 cm; the patient was hospitalized and medicated, being also submitted to laparotomy and myomectomy due to worsening of her condition. Prenatal care revealed no further abnormalities, with resolution of gestation at 39 weeks. The newborn weighed 3,315 g, with Apgar scores of 9 and 10. In such cases, clinical treatment should always be attempted and surgery should be considered only in selected cases, mainly in the impossibility of conservative treatment or when the patient's clinical features require immediate intervention. In this case, myomectomy was effective against maternal-fetal obstetric complications.

The clinical spectrum of preeclampsia (PE) ranges from mild hypertension to severe vasospasm associated with convulsions and multiple organ damage. The biological factors that determine the progression of PE to eclampsia (E) are unknown. Endothelial cell activation seems related to an impaired maternal immune response. The production of cytokines, IL-10 and TGF-beta1, is apparently suppressed, and altered IL-2/IL-10 and TNF-alpha/IL-10 ratios have been reported in preeclamptic cases. The relationship between PE and cytokine gene polymorphism has been studied, but there are few studies that include eclamptic patients. This study aimed at investigating whether polymorphisms in genes, TNF-alpha promoter (-308 GA), IL6 promoter (-174 GC), IFN-gamma intron 1 (+874 AT), IL10 promoters (-1082 AG), (-819 CT) and (-592 CA) and TGF-beta1 codon 10 (+869 TC) and codon 25 (+915 GC) are associated with E and/or PE. Genotyping was carried out in 266 Mulatto women from the northeastern region of Brazil who were referred to a single maternity hospital: 92 with PE, 73 with E and 101 normotensive controls. The chi(2) or Fisher's exact tests were used to compare genotype frequencies. Among the six single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) studied, we found no difference in genotype frequencies between the groups. There was a higher frequency of IFN-gamma (+874 A) in eclamptic patients in comparison with that in controls. (70.3 vs. 57.8%, respectively; P=0.02). There were no other significant differences in allelic frequencies between eclamptic, preeclamptic and control groups We found no independent association between any single SNP and PE or E risk in this population of Mulatto women from the northeastern region of Brazil.

OBJETIVO: Analisar os padrões histopatológicos das artérias do leito placentário em gestações complicadas por hipertensão arterial crônica (HAC) comparando-os com o de grávidas normais. MÉTODOS: Biópsias de leito placentário, segundo técnica de Robertson et al.¹, foram realizadas em pacientes com idade gestacional igual ou superior a 28 semanas, submetidas a cesárea, após a dequitação. O grupo controle (GC) foi composto por 25 pacientes normais e o grupo de estudo composto por 13 pacientes com HAC leve (HL), 11 pacientes com HAC moderada (HM) e 11 pacientes com HAC grave (HG). As classes de hipertensão foram consideradas leve (PAD 90 |- 100 mmHg), moderada (PAD 100 |- 110 mmHg) e grave (PAD³ > 110mmHg). Os padrões histológicos das artérias espiraladas foram classificados em: padrão inalterado, modificações fisiológicas, desorganização da camada média, alterações hiperplásicas, necrose e aterose aguda. RESULTADOS: 1) Os achados anormais foram predominantes no grupo de hipertensas, sendo mais freqüente nos grupos HM e HG. 2) O achado anormal mais prevalente foi a desorganização da camada média, com distribuição semelhante nos grupos HM e HG. 3) Os padrões normais ocorreram nos grupos GC e HL, com distribuição semelhante entre si.OBJECTIVES: To analyze histopathological patterns of placental bed arteries in pregnancies complicated by chronic arterial hypertension. Alterations were considered according to clinical classification of the hypertensive disorders as mild (MG); moderate (MoG) and severe (SG) for comparison with uncomplicated pregnancies, control group (CG). METHODS: Placental bed biopsy was performed in 60 pregnant women; the study group was comprised of pregnant women with hypertension, subdivided in 13 with severe chronic hypertension (CH), 11 with moderate CH and 11 with mild CH, and results were compared to 25 placental bed biopsies from uncomplicated pregnancies. All the pregnant women had a gestational age of at least 28 weeks of gestation with a live fetus and were submitted to cesarean section. Hypertension was considered mild with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) 90 I? 100 mmHg, moderate DBP 100 I? 110 mmHg and severe DBP = 110 mmHg. Placental bed variables selected for histological analysis were: unaltered patterns, physiological changes, medial layer disorganization, medial and intimal hyperplasic changes, acute necrosis and atherosis. RESULTS: In cases with SG and MoG there was predominance of abnormal histophysiological findings: medial layer disorganization and hyperplasic changes, with a statistically significant difference when compared to MG and CG. Alteration in the medial layer was observed in these cases. The normal pattern, unaltered patterns and physiologic changes were more frequent in CG and MG. Physiological changes were the most usual finding, further, there was no acute necrosis or atherosis. CONCLUSION: 1. Abnormal histophysiological findings were predominant in hypertensive pregnant women compared to the normotensive ones; 2. These patterns were more frequent, according to the severity of the hypertensive disorders: Severe, Moderate and Mild; 3. More significant abnormal findings were a change in the medial layer, mainly in the group with severe hypertensive disorders; 4. The groups with moderate and severe hypertensive disorders when compared had similar results; 5. The normal histological pattern was higher in the control group and patients with mild hypertensive disorders and disclosed a similarity between them 6. The most usual pattern was physiologic changes, which was more frequent in the control group.

Objectives To evaluate the potential benefit of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) administration in pregnant women recognized to have hypertension early in pregnancy. Methods This is a randomized study comparing the addition of nasal CPAP treatment to standard prenatal care to standard prenatal care alone in hypertensive women treated with alpha-methyl dopa during early pregnancy. Pregnant women with hypertension were recruited by their obstetricians and completed baseline sleep questionnaires and visual analogue scales on snoring and sleepiness. Subjects were then randomized to receive either CPAP with standard prenatal care (treatment group) or standard prenatal care alone (control group) with routine obstetric follow-up. Nocturnal polysomnography was performed in all patients randomized to the treatment group for initial CPAP titration. Periodic assessment of blood pressure control and CPAP compliance was performed by the same specialist at each scheduled follow-up visit. Results In the control group ( n =9), a progressive rise in blood pressure with a corresponding increase in alpha-methyl dopa doses was observed, beginning at the sixth month of pregnancy. There was also an increase in the number of non-scheduled post-natal visits during the first postpartum month. Pre-eclampsia occurred in one subject; the remaining eight patients had normal pregnancies and infant deliveries. In the treatment group ( n =7), blood pressure was noted to decrease significantly as compared to the control group with associated decreases in doses of antihypertensive medications at six months of gestation. All treated patients experienced uncomplicated pregnancies and delivered infants with higher APGAR scores at one minute post-delivery compared to those of controls. Conclusion In pregnant women with hypertension and chronic snoring, nasal CPAP use during the first eight weeks of pregnancy combined with standard prenatal care is associated with better blood pressure control and improved pregnancy outcomes.

To establish normative data for ophthalmic artery Doppler parameters throughout a healthy pregnancy, to investigate the possible correlation between these Doppler measurements and gestational age, and to test intraobserver variability.A prospective cross-sectional study was performed to assess various Doppler parameters in 276 healthy women between 20 and 39 weeks of gestation. The following measurements were obtained: pulsatility and resistance indices (PI, RI), peak systolic velocity (PSV), peak diastolic velocity (PDV), end diastolic flow velocity (EDFV), and peak ratio (PR). Quantile regression was used to estimate reference values throughout pregnancy and P0.05 was considered significant. The intraclass correlation coefficient (Intra-CC) was used to calculate intraobserver variability.The 5th and 95th prediction intervals for each gestational age are presented. No significant correlation was detected between Doppler indices and gestational age. Intra-CC was excellent (0.996).Reference values were generated for ophthalmic artery Doppler measurements, and they did not vary significantly during healthy pregnancy.

OBJETIVO: apresentar uma técnica cirúrgica para pacientes submetidas ao parto cesáreo e que evoluem com hemorragia refratária ao uso de medicamentos. MÉTODOS: o critério de seleção das pacientes era falha do tratamento farmacológico no controle da hemorragia pós-parto e o desejo da paciente em preservar o útero. As pacientes foram submetidas ao parto cesáreo e evoluíram com hemorragia pós-parto imediata refratária ao uso de ocitocina, ergometrina e misoprostol. Aplicamos a técnica de sutura descrita por B-Lynch sem modificações. Com fio cromado catgut-2 ou poliglactina-1, transfixamos o útero em seis pontos, conforme padronização. Após compressão manual do útero realizada pelo assistente, o fio é tracionado pelas suas extremidades pelo cirurgião e é aplicado um nó duplo seguido de dois nós simples, para em seguida realizar-se a histerorrafia. RESULTADOS: utilizamos o fio cromado catgut-2 agulhado em três casos e poliglactina-1 agulhado em um. Nos quatro casos houve parada imediata do sangramento vaginal após aplicação da sutura. Não houve qualquer complicação durante a realização do procedimento e nem no puerpério imediato e tardio das quatro pacientes. CONCLUSÕES: esta técnica representa uma alternativa cirúrgica para o manejo da hemorragia pós-parto. Com sua aplicação relativamente fácil, rápida e segura, pode representar uma redução da morbimortalidade materna em nosso país.PURPOSE: to present a surgical technique for patients submitted to caesarean section, which evolves to medicine refractory hemorrhage. METHODS: a case report study, of which the including criteria were failure in the pharmacological treatment to control post-partum hemorrhage, and the patients' request to preserve their uterus. Four patients submitted to caesarean section which evolved to immediate post-partum hemorrhage, refractory to the use of ocytocin, ergometrine and misoprostol, were treated with the suture technique described by B-Lynch, without modification. The uterus was transfixed in six points according to the standard procedure, with chrome catgut-2 or polyglactine-1thread. After the assistant's manual compression of the uterus, the thread was pulled by its extremities by the surgeon, and a double knot followed by two simple knots were applied before performing the hysterorraphy. RESULTS: needled chrome catgut-2 thread was used in three cases and needled poluglactine-1 in one case. In the four cases there was immediate discontinuity of the vaginal bleeding, after the suture. The four patients did not present any complication during the procedure or along the immediate and late puerperal period. CONCLUSION: this technique represents a surgical alternative to deal with post-partum hemorrhage and may represent a reduction in the maternal morbidity and mortality in our country.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether sodium nitroprusside causes fetal death in pregnancies complicated with hypertension. DATA SOURCES: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE; 1996 to 2003), Excerpta Medica (EMBASE; 1970 to 2003), Web of Science/Institute for Scientific Information (ISI; 1945 to 2003), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS; 1982 to 2003) and the Cochrane Library. REVIEW METHODS: The medical subject headings used were "nitroprusside and pregnancy", "hypertension or eclampsia or preeclampsia" and "nitroprusside and pregnancy and hypertensive emergencies". The search was limited to humans and female gender, in all fields, publication types, languages and subsets. Articles were also identified by reviewing the references of articles and textbooks on hypertension and pregnancy. RESULTS: The search located nine studies. The sum of all the publications yielded a total of 22 patients and 24 exposed fetuses (two pairs of twins). There were no randomized clinical trials and no prospective cohorts. All of the studies were observational in nature. CONCLUSIONS: At present, there is insufficient evidence for definitive conclusions about any direct association between sodium nitroprusside use and fetal demise. OBJETIVOS: Resolver a questão: o nitroprussiato de sódio causa morte fetal em gestações complicadas por hipertensão? FONTES DE INFORMAÇÃO: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrival System Online, MEDLINE (1996 a 2003), Excerpta Medica, EMBASE (1970 to 2003), Web of Science - Institute for Scientific Information, ISI (1945 a 2003), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, LILACS (1982 a 2003) e a Cochrane Library. MÉTODO DE REVISÃO: Os descritores usados foram "nitroprussiato e gravidez", "hipertensão ou eclâmpsia ou pré-eclâmpsia", "nitroprussiato e gravidez e emergências hipertensivas" limitada a humanos e mulheres, em todos os campos, tipos de publicação, línguas e subgrupos. Foram também identificados artigos através das referências das publicações e de livros sobre hipertensão e gravidez. RESULTADOS: A revisão identificou nove publicações. A soma de todas elas descreveu um total de 22 mulheres e 24 fetos (duas gestações gemelares) expostos ao nitroprussiato. Não foram localizados ensaios clínicos randomizados ou coortes prospectivas. Todos os estudos eram do tipo descritivo. CONCLUSÕES: No momento, não existem evidências suficientes para se chegar à conclusão definitiva de que exista uma associação direta entre o uso de nitroprussiato de sódio e morte fetal.

Introducao: O acometimento renal em gestantes portadoras de hipertensao arterial cronica (HAC) nao e amplamente conhecido. Objetivos: 1- Descrever o perfil epidemiologico de pacientes com HAC; 2- Avaliar a ocorrencia de alteracoes urinarias e de funcao renal (por meio de determinacao serica de creatinina, cistatina C e ritmo de filtracao glomerular estimada - RFGe); 3- Avaliar o desfecho das gestacoes em HAC. Metodos: Foram submetidas a avaliacoes clinicas e laboratoriais 103 gestantes com HAC (pressao arterial acima de 140/90 mmHg, identificada previamente a gestacao ou ate a 20a semana). Resultados: As gestantes tinham 21-45 (media: 34) anos; 12,6% eram primigestas, 64,1% tiveram multiplas gestacoes. A relacao proteinuria/creatininuria em amostra isolada estava alterada em 5,2% casos (0-6,44 g/g), creatinina serica estava elevada em 19,6% e cistatina C em 14,7%. Na avaliacao das caracteristicas da gestacao em pacientes com HAC e seus recem-nascidos (RN) (vs. frequencias nos casos com CKD-EPI cistatina C < 60 ml/min/1,73 m2), observou-se: 20,5% (33,3%) de nascidos pre-termo < 37 sem, 17,5% (22,2%) de RN com peso < 2500 g e 17,5% (22,2%) de RN pequeno para a idade gestacional (PIG); sobreposicao de DHEG ocorreu em 24,7% (22,2%) dos casos. Conclusao: Alteracoes renais foram identificadas por proteinuria, creatinina e cistatina C sericas em 5,2%, 19,6 e 14,7% das gestantes. Os resultados sugerem que as formulas do CKD-EPI e MDRD tambem podem ter aplicabilidade nessa avaliacao em gestantes. Detectou-se alta frequencia de RN pre-termo ou com menos de 2500 g ao nascer ou PIG, assim como de sobreposicao de DHEG (24,7%) em gestantes com HAC.

Introduction The maternity mortality rate in the Santos lowlands region, priority region of Sao Paulo/Brazil, is higher when compared to regions in the state of Sao Paulo. The hypertensive disorders are implicated in approximately 20% of death. Severe preeclampsia (PE) is recognized as the frequent diagnosis associated with maternal and fetal ominous outcomes. The recognition of potential risk support antenatal intervention which could anticipate the installation of catastrophic results. Identifying the epidemiological profile of women who may present with this evolution can guide public health policies and actions of the professionals involved in caring for these women avoiding preformed concepts and contributing to the recognition of local reality situation. Objectives Identify the epidemiological profile of women affected by severe PE. Methods A descriptive study involving 46 pregnant women admitted to specialized hospital for high-risk pregnancy with the diagnosis of severe PE according to the criteria of NHBPEP (2000), as: blood pressure ⩾160/110 mmHg, proteinuria 2.0 g/24 h or +2 dipstick, serum creatinine >1.2 mg/dl (new onset), platelets 3 , microangiopathic hemolysis (increased lactate dehydrogenase), elevated alanine aminotransferase or aspartate aminotransferase, persistent headaches or other cerebral or visual disturbance, persistent epigastric pain or eclampsia in the period from January/2008 to November/2010. Results The average age of the pregnant women was 25.5 years (±6.5), 11 women were multiparous and nulliparous and 35 (76.1%), the average gestational age at admission was 34 4/7, developing to eclampsia and/or HELLP syndrome were 07 women (15.2%), admission often occurred before the installation of labor in (93.5%) had a previous diagnosis of chronic hypertension (30.4%) and in all cases magnesium sulfate administration with an average length of 32 h (±16.6 h). Conclusion The occurrence of severe PE was more common in nulliparous women at the age of 25 years, admitted in prematurity and not in preterm labor. The outcome of seizure and/or HELLP has a considerable impact. The association of chronic hypertension with severe PE is more than 1/4 of the cases. These data are equivalent to other areas of Brazil and may contribute to emphasize the practice of prenatal acting that can recognize and pre-comment possible adverse developments and attitudes aimed at intercepting the process.

Introduction Postpartum haemorrhage is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, uterine atony being responsible for most of the cases. Hypertensive disorders are supposed to increase the possibility of such complications, mainly when complicated by “abruptio placentae”. The classical treatments for postpartum haemorrhage have been based on medications like oxytocin and misoprostol, but more recently a haemostatic uterine suture developed by Christopher B-Lynch has been indicated. Here, we describe our experience of performing such technique and investigate its results in patients complicated by hypertensive disorders. Objectives Reporting a series of cases of postpartum haemorrhage treated with the B-Lynch suture. Methods This is a descriptive study including 39 patients treated with the B-Lynch suture after postpartum haemorrhage related to uterine atony. The period evaluated was between January 2005 and February 2012. Intravascular oxytocin was routinely used in all cases, with doses changing from 20 to 60 IU. The suture material used was chromed catgut 1.0 mm. Results The mode of delivery was cesarean-section in all cases. Five patients (12.8%) had hypertensive disorder as additional complication and one of these patients had abruptio placentae followed by development of Couvelaire uterus. Overall, the B-Lynch technique helped to control haemorrhage in all cases evaluated. Conclusion We believe that the B-Lynch technique appears as an important procedure to be indicated in cases of postpartum haemorrhage. Therefore, we recommend that this technique should be tried to control such complications before deciding for other more aggressive procedures like hysterectomy. It seems that this treatment may be used in patients complicated by hypertensive disorders.

Introduction Preeclampsia (PE) is an important cause of glomerulopathy. Assessment of renal markers during pregnancy may have a predictive value for glomerular disease later in life. The early detection of PE may prevent the complications of this syndrome. Objectives Assess the glomerular involvement in PE and in normal pregnancy by evaluating renal markers such as podocyturia and proteinuria. Methods Case–control study with 39 pregnant women after 20 weeks of gestation (control group – CG with n =25 and PE with n =14), we assessed podocyturia (cytospin method) and proteinuria (albuminuria, urine protein:creatinine – PCR, urinary retinol protein – RBP and albumin/creatinine ratio – ACR). (Grant FAPESP 08/56338-1) Results Mean±standard deviation of age and mean gestational age of CG were 26.9±6.4years and 37.1±5.0weeks and of PE, 26.4±6.9 and 30.6±5.6, respectively ( p =0.001). No statistical differences were found between podocyturia in CG and PE although it was more frequent in this last group ( p =0.258). Podocyte cells and parietal epithelial cells were detected in the slides. Mean±standard deviation of urinary RBP ( p =0.017), albuminuria ( p =0.002) and UAC ratio ( p =0.006) of CG were 0.4±0.7mg/L, 7.3±6.9mg/L and 8.2±6.7mg/g and of PE, 2.0±4.4mg/L, 2267.4±2130.8mg/L ( p =0.002) and 3778.9±4296.6mg/g ( p =0.006), respectively. Mean value±standard deviation of urine PCR in PE was 6.7±6.1g/g ( p = Conclusion Urinary RBP, PCR, albuminuria and UAC ratio were elevated in PE in comparison to CG indicating its glomerular involvement but there was no correlation between those renal parameters and podocyturia. RPC and UAC ratios were good predictors of PE, but not podocyturia. Either podocyte cells as parietal epithelial cells were detected in the urine, these findings may indicate a non-invasive marker for renal disease activity but more studies are required to determine its role in PE.