Evaluation of pregnancy outcome in cases of intrauterine growth restriction in relation to placenta apoptosis and doppler indices of the umbilical and uterine arteries

Abstract

Objective: To assess apoptotic changes in trophoblastic cells in normal term placentae and term placentae complicated by either preeclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Additionally, we aim to examine the correlation between these apoptotic changes and the Doppler velocity of the umbilical and uterine arteries. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 150 pregnant women, including 100 cases with preeclampsia and 50 controls. Placentas were collected at delivery, and apoptotic changes were examined using light microscopy and immunohistochemical staining. Doppler velocimetries were performed to assess umbilical and uterine artery resistance indices. Pregnancy outcomes and neonatal data were recorded. Results: The incidence of apoptosis in placentae was significantly higher in the preeclampsia group compared to the control group (p<0.001). The umbilical and uterine resistance indices were also significantly higher in the preeclampsia group (p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between the incidence of apoptosis and Doppler resistance indices in the preeclampsia group. Fetal birth weight, Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes, and gestational age at delivery were significantly lower in the preeclampsia group (p<0.001). Conclusions: Increased placental apoptosis and abnormal Doppler indices are associated with preeclampsia and adverse pregnancy outcomes.