1159 THE PRE-TERM SMALL FOR GESTATION (SGA) INFANT: A TWO YEAR FOLLOW UP STUDY

Abstract

Previous investigators have reported unfavorable neurological and developmental outcome of SGA infants (birth weight (b.w) <1500 gms) born at term or at <30 wks of gestation. Since obstetrical considerations for the delivery of an SGA fetus often arise between 30-38 wks, the outcome of these survivors becomes a relevant issue. In 1975-76, 28 of 47 such infants survived and 21 were followed sequentially during the first 2 yrs. Their b.w. was 1220 ± 195 g (M ±SD) and the gestation 33.4 ±2 wks. Each SGA infant was paired with a b.w.-matched appropriate for gestation (AGA) infant whose b.w. was 1195 ± 190 g and gestation 29 ± 2 wks. They have comparable sex distributions, perinatal risk scores, maternal education, occupational status and caloric intake during the first 3 months. The weight, length, and head circumference of the SGA infants attained the 10th percentile by 6-8 months and were similar to the AGA group. Quarterly neurological examinations showed similar findings during the first year in the 2 groups. At 2 yrs, 2 SGA (diplegia) and 1 AGA infant (hemiplegia) were abnormal. The quarterly Bayley scores of the SGA infants were lower during the first year but at 18-24 months, the 2 groups had similar motor and cognitive developmental quotients. The data indicate a favorable outcome in both AGA and SGA preterm infants weighing <1500 gms; the favorable result in SGA infants may form an additional basis for the delivery of such a fetus at 30-38 wks if other obstetrical factors so indicated.