Occurrence of congenital malformations in dead fetuses and neonates autopsied between 1991 and 2001 at the Institute of Pathology and Histology in Novi Sad

Abstract

Congenital malformations are morphological developmental anomalies visible during clinical examination or autopsy (in case of death, stillborn or abortion). Their incidence in human population is estimated to be between 5-10%, and perinatal mortality rate varies from 20-25%. The research was conducted at the Department of Pathology and Histology and at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Novi Sad. We analyzed autopsy reports of newborns (under 28 days old), stillborns and miscarried fetuses in 1991 and 2001. Data on type and incidence of malformations in 1991 and 2001 were compared in order to determine statistically significant differences. Autopsy reports for 1991 revealed malformations in 21 cases, whereas autopsies were performed in 103 fetuses and newborns. The total number of deliveries at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Novi Sad was 6,160. Autopsy reports for 2001 revealed malformations in 33 cases, and autopsies were performed in 126 fetuses and newborns. The total number of deliveries at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Novi Sad was 6,101. Comparison regarding incidence of malformations in 1991 and 2001, showed no statistically significant difference. Congenital malformations are the most important cause of prenatal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. One reason for that is better treatment of other diseases, but on the other side, there are more toxic materials in human environment. It is concluded that the incidence of congenital malformations in mortality of fetuses and newborns is high (20.39% in 1991, and 26.19% in 2001). We can also point to increase of central nervous system malformations in comparison with malformations of other organ systems.