Neonatal Outcomes in Different Maternal Diabetes Types: Experience from a Tertiary Care Unit

Abstract

Objective: Infants of mothers with diabetes (IMD) may require hospitalization in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) for various reasons. In our study, our objective was to compare clinical and laboratory findings, as well as malformations and morbidities among IMD based on the types of maternal diabetes. Material and Methods: The diabetic status of mothers of 4713 infants admitted to tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2022, was examined. We retrospectively analyzed demographic data, clinical and laboratory characteristics, and morbidities for 616 infants born to mothers with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), or pre-existing gestational diabetes mellitus (Pre-GDM). Results: Of the 616 cases, 167 (27.1%) were infants of mothers with IGT, 394 (64%) with GDM and 55 (8.9%) with Pre-GDM. The prevalence of macrosomia was significantly higher in Pre-GDM (30.9%) than in the IGT (15%) and GDM (19.3%) groups (p=0.033). The most common malformations in the cases were related to the cardiovascular system (CVS) (77.4%). The frequency of septal hypertrophy was significantly higher in the Pre-GDM group compared to the IGT and GDM groups, and in the GDM group compared to the IGT group (p<0.001). The rates of septal hypertrophy, CVS malformation, LGA/macrosomia, and hypocalcemia were found to be significantly higher in infants of mothers with insulin requirement and high HbA1c levels, particularly in Pre-GDM group (p<0.001). According to the ROC analysis for the optimum maternal HbA1c value predicting septal hypertrophy, the threshold value was found to be 6% (AUC=0.693) with 62% sensitivity and 66% specificity. In logistic regression analysis, macrosomia and maternal HbA1c ≥6% were determined as independent risk factors for the presence of septal hypertrophy. Conclusion: Despite variations in the type of maternal diabetes, IDM experience significant clinical challenges when hospitalized and monitored in the NICU. Infants born to mothers with IGT may also be subjected to maternal hyperglycemia. The likelihood of certain complications rises in infants born to pregnant women with inadequate glycemic control, particularly those with elevated HbA1c levels. By ensuring maternal glycemic control and closely monitoring these infants, it is possible to reduce both mortality and morbidity.