Maternal Serum Vitamin Research Articles

Nutrigenetic Investigations in Preeclampsia.

Background: Preeclampsia is a leading cause of pregnancy-related maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Although its precise cause and prevention remain unclear, risk factors such as overweight and inadequate nutrient intake (e.g., calcium, folic acid, and vitamin D) are known to increase its incidence. Recent research has focused on the genetic predisposition to preeclampsia, identifying polymorphisms that may affect enzyme or receptor function. This study aims to review existing literature examining the relationship between genetic polymorphisms, BMI (body mass index), and nutrient levels in preeclampsia to develop more actionable therapeutic strategies. Methods: A systematic review was conducted to analyze studies on the nutrigenetic relationship between BMI, micronutrients, and preeclampsia. Results: A total of 17 studies investigating 12 genes related to BMI and 10 studies exploring 3 genes in relation to micronutrient levels were included in the analysis. Several polymorphisms associated with preeclampsia were found to be influenced by maternal BMI or serum vitamin levels. The interactions between certain gene variants and these factors suggest that both BMI and micronutrient status may modify the risk of developing preeclampsia in genetically predisposed individuals. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the potential for reanalyzing existing data by categorizing based on genotype and nutrient levels. This approach could yield more personalized dietary and therapeutic recommendations for managing preeclampsia. In the future, genetic information may support the development of tailored nutritional counseling during pregnancy to mitigate preeclampsia risk.

To Study the Correlation of Maternal Serum Vitamin D Levels and Infant Serum Vitamin D Levels With Infant Birth Weight: A Single-Centre Experience From the Bundelkhand Region, India.

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can have severe effects on both the mother and the newborn child. The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of maternal vitamin D levels on the birth weight of the newborn by analysing the vitamin D levels in pregnant women at full term and their newborn. The cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted with 150 consecutive women in labour presenting with a singleton term pregnancy at a large tertiary centre in the Bundelkhand region, India. Maternal and infant blood samples were obtained at the time of delivery. Umbilical cord blood was collected from infants, while maternal venous blood was drawn simultaneously. All relevant data were gathered, including the assessment of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 levels in both mother and infant. The birth weight of the infant was measured, and statistical analysis was performed to find an association between maternal vitamin D level to birth weight and vitamin D level of the infant. Most pregnant women had low vitamin D levels in this study. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between maternal serum vitamin D levels and infant birth weight (p < 0.001), suggesting that lower maternal vitamin D levels were associated with low birth weight in infants. Additionally, infant serum vitamin D levels showed a positive correlation with maternal vitamin D levels (p < 0.001), indicating that higher maternal vitamin D levels tend to have infants with higher vitamin D levels at birth. These findings suggest a potential correlation of maternal vitamin D status to birth weight and vitamin D level of newborns, and further research is needed to confirm and better understand this relationship. Additionally, other factors such as maternal nutrition, genetics, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences may contribute to birth weight outcomes.

Associations Between Early-Pregnancy Vitamin D Status and Postpartum Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms.

Maternal postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms are risk factors for subsequent maternal and child mental health problems. Little is known about the potential role of antepartum vitamin D and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the etiology of maternal postpartum affective symptoms. We investigated associations between antepartum vitamin D status and postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms and whether antepartum CRP mediated these associations. In 2483 participants of the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development prospective cohort, maternal serum vitamin D and CRP were measured at a median of 13 weeks' gestation. Vitamin D status was defined as deficient (≤29.9 nM), insufficient (30-49.9 nM), sufficient (50-79.9 nM), or normal (≥80 nM). Maternal depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression) and anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) were assessed 3 months postpartum. After adjustments for confounders, vitamin D deficiency was only associated with increased postpartum anxiety symptoms ( B = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.03-0.30, p = .017) compared to normal vitamin D levels (≥80 nM). In women not taking vitamin D supplementation ( n = 2303), vitamin D deficiency was associated with increased postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms ( B = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.03-0.28, p = .045; and B = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.03-0.32, p = .015). Antepartum CRP did not mediate these links. We found some evidence that antepartum vitamin D deficiency was associated with increased postpartum affective symptoms, especially in women not taking vitamin D supplementation. Clinical trials should determine whether vitamin D supplementation can reduce the risk for postpartum affective disorders.

Association of Maternal Serum Vitamin D Level with Hydatidiform Mole-A Systemic Review

Hydatidiform mole is an abnormal type of pregnancy, in which a potentially anomalous ovum is abnormally fertilized resulting in a subsequently non-viable conceptus becoming an enlarged growth in the uterus with dangerous complications. These moles can occur as either complete or partial, each with its own unique features. Like other risk factor, nutritional risk factors are associated with increased likelihood of development of HM. Low dietary intake of carotene, inadequate protein and animal fats are thought to be associated with increased risk of HM. Vitamin D is a steroid hormone with receptors found throughout the body including ovary, uterus, and placenta and has natural immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory properties. At the ovarian level, vitamin D has been shown to enhance ovulation. In the human syncytiotrophoblast, vitamin D and its components act together to enhance the expressions of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen, estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, vitamin D co-regulates cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in numerous tissues and 1,25(OH)2D3 also inhibits angiogenesis and metastasis. Deficiency of vitamin D may lead to increased ROS and decreased antioxidative defense systems that could lead to oxidative injury in patients with HM. In the human syncytiotrophoblast, vitamin D and its components act together to enhance the expressions of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen, estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, vitamin D co-regulates cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in numerous tissues and 1,25(OH)2D3 also inhibits angiogenesis and metastasis. Deficiency of vitamin D may lead to increased ROS and decreased antioxidative defense systems that could lead to oxidative injury in patients with HM. Studies showed there is significant association of low vitamin D level and obstetric complications like early pregnancy loss, premature rupture of membrane, fetal growth restriction and also many extra-skeletal diseases like ovary and colon cancer. In developing countries like-Bangladesh, vitamin D deficiency is much more common and starting in early life and persisting across the life span due to limited exposure to sunlight and low consumption of animal sources food. Therefore, this study was intended to determine the association of vitamin D and hydatidiform mole in a Bangladeshi woman, which may help in deciding about vitamin D supplementation as a preventive measure of hydatidiform mole.

Association of maternal serum vitamin D level with fetal pulmonary artery Doppler indices and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is potentially fatal in infants. The present study investigated the association of maternal serum vitamin D level with fetal pulmonary artery Doppler indices and neonatal RDS. This cross-sectional-analytical study was conducted on 260 mothers admitted for delivery. The maternal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was measured and fetal main pulmonary artery Doppler indices were evaluated. The neonate's weight, apgar score, RDS, Umbilical cord arterial pH and neonatal intensive care unit admission were recorded. There was a significant relationship between RDS and the low level of vitamin D in the mother's serum. Mothers with low vitamin D had higher fetal pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PI) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) and lower acceleration time (AT) to ejection time (ET) ratio. Also, in neonates with RDS, pulmonary artery PI was higher, and PSV and the ratio of AT to ET were significantly lower than neonates without RDS. Neonates with lower one and 5-min apgar scores were born from mothers with lower vitamin D levels. Serum levels of vitamin D in pregnant mothers as well as fetal pulmonary artery Doppler indices are correlated to RDS. There is a significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D in pregnant mothers and fetal pulmonary artery Doppler indices.

Innovative Machine Learning Strategies for Early Detection and Prevention of Pregnancy Loss: The Vitamin D Connection and Gestational Health.

Early pregnancy loss (EPL) is a prevalent health concern with significant implications globally for gestational health. This research leverages machine learning to enhance the prediction of EPL and to differentiate between typical pregnancies and those at elevated risk during the initial trimester. We employed different machine learning methodologies, from conventional models to more advanced ones such as deep learning and multilayer perceptron models. Results from both classical and advanced machine learning models were evaluated using confusion matrices, cross-validation techniques, and analysis of feature significance to obtain correct decisions among algorithmic strategies on early pregnancy loss and the vitamin D serum connection in gestational health. The results demonstrated that machine learning is a powerful tool for accurately predicting EPL, with advanced models such as deep learning and multilayer perceptron outperforming classical ones. Linear discriminant analysis and quadratic discriminant analysis algorithms were shown to have 98 % accuracy in predicting pregnancy loss outcomes. Key determinants of EPL were identified, including levels of maternal serum vitamin D. In addition, prior pregnancy outcomes and maternal age are crucial factors in gestational health. This study's findings highlight the potential of machine learning in enhancing predictions related to EPL that can contribute to improved gestational health outcomes for mothers and infants.

A study of relationship between maternal serum vitamin D level with hydatidiform mole

A study of relationship between maternal serum vitamin D level with hydatidiform mole

Association of Altered Ratio of Maternal Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 during Pregnancy with Newborn Birth Weight, Head Circumference, and Chest Circumference

Objective This study evaluated the effect of an altered ratio of maternal RBC folate (MRF) to serum vitamin B12 (MB12) on pregnancy and newborn outcomes. Methods Blood samples were collected from pregnant women and the umbilical cord at the time of delivery. Estimations of RBC folate and serum vitamin B12 from maternal and cord blood samples and total homocysteine (HCY) were performed. Maternal and newborn anthropometric parameters like placental weight (PW), head circumference (HC), chest circumference (CC), and body weight (BW) were measured in offsprings after birth. We stratified the pregnant women into six groups (a) vitamin B12 normal and folic acid normal (BNFN)-control group, (b) vitamin B12 normal and folic acid elevated (BNFE), (c) vitamin B12 normal and folic acid deficient (BNFD), (d) vitamin B12 deficient and folic acid normal (BDFN), (e) vitamin B12 deficient and folic acid elevated (BDFE) and (f) vitamin B12 deficient and folic acid deficient (BDFD) based on their levels of RBC folate (MRF) and vitamin B12 (MB12). The expression of the one-carbon metabolism genes (methionine synthase (MS), glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT), and cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) was also studied in placental tissue by using real-time PCR. Results Cord blood RBC folate was significantly reduced in groups BDFE and BDFD as compared to the control group (BNFN). The cord blood vitamin B12 levels were also reduced in the BDFE group as compared to the BDFD. All the newborn parameters viz. PW, HC, CC, and BW, were reduced in the altered MRF/MB12 ratio (low & high vs. normal ratio). Total HCY was significantly elevated in the groups with (BDFE & BDFN) an imbalance of maternal RBC folate and serum vitamin B12 as compared to the control group. Downregulation of one-carbon metabolism genes like MS (p < 0.001), GNMT (p < 0.05), and CBS (p < 0.01) in placental tissue was observed in the high MRF/MB12 ratio group as compared to the normal ratio group. A strong positive correlation was also observed between MRF, MB12, and newborn parameters. Conclusions The altered ratio of folate to vitamin B12 in the maternal blood is associated with adverse growth and development of the newborn.

Maternal vitamin A and D status in second and third trimester of pregnancy and bone mineral content in offspring at nine years of age.

Maternal nutritional and vitamin status during pregnancy may have long-term effects on offspring health and disease. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between maternal vitamin A and D status in pregnancy and offspring bone mineral content (BMC) at nine years of age. This is a post-hoc study of a randomized control trial including 855 pregnant women from two Norwegian cities; Trondheim and Stavanger. The women were randomized into an exercise intervention or standard antenatal care. Mother and child pairs for the present study were recruited from those still living in Trondheim after 8-10 years. Serum vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin D (25(OH)D) were measured in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, and active vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) in serum was measured in a subgroup. Spine BMC and trabecular bone score were measured in the children at nine years of age. Associations were analyzed with linear regression models. A total of 119 mother and child pairs were included in the analyses. Vitamin A insufficiency (retinol< 1.05 µmol/L) and vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D< 50 mmol/L) increased from ~7% to ~43% and from ~28% to ~33%, respectively, from the 2nd to the 3rd trimester. An increase in serum 1,25(OH)2D from the 2nd to the 3rd trimester was observed in the subgroup. There was a negative association between serum retinol in the 2nd trimester and spine BMC in the boys, but not in the girls, when adjusted for maternal and child confounders. No other associations between maternal serum vitamin A or D and BMC in the children were found. We observed a high prevalence of vitamin A insufficiency and vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy. A negative association between mid-pregnancy vitamin A status and spine BMC was observed in boys, but not girls, while no associations were found between maternal vitamin D status and child BMC. The implications of optimal vitamin A and D status in pregnancy for offspring bone health, remains a subject for further investigations.

Unlocking the mystery of the role of Vitamin D in iron deficiency anemia in antenatal women: a case control study in a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi

BackgroundVitamin D deficiency and anemia are clinical conditions that coexist during pregnancy. A high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency ranging from 50 to 94% is seen throughout the country. The aim of the study was to discover the association between Vitamin D status and iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Improving the vitamin D status of pregnant women is crucial to prevent iron deficiency anemia and can improve maternal and fetal outcomes.MethodsA case–control study including 94 primigravida women of age within the age group 18 to 30 years, divided into two groups: a Case Group of 48 patients with already diagnosed iron deficiency anemia (mild to moderate) and a Control Group of 46 antenatal women with normal hemoglobin levels. Data on sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and the levels of 25(OH) Vitamin D was estimated in both the groups. The association of 25(OH)D levels and anemia was then determined using suitable statistical analysis.ResultsAmong pregnant women affected with anemia, 75% of women had serum Vitamin D concentrations < 20 ng/ml compared to 52.2% of women in the controls. Maternal serum vitamin D level was significantly lower in pregnant women affected with anemia (19.61 ± 13.12) as compared to control (29.43 ± 24.05); (p = 0.024). A positive correlation was found between hemoglobin and vitamin D levels in pregnant women (Pearson’s r = 0.200, p = 0.05).ConclusionsThese findings provide evidence suggesting that Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency during pregnancy may be a risk factor for anemia and correction of Vitamin D levels can improve hemoglobin levels. Educational efforts should be made to include safe vitamin D intake in antenatal care.

Association of Maternal Serum Vitamin D with Preeclampsia

Association of Maternal Serum Vitamin D with Preeclampsia

Nonlinear Relationship Between Maternal and Cord Blood Vitamin B12 and Folate from a Chinese Population-Based Study.

There remains a data gap on vitamin B12 and folate level in maternal and child populations. This study aimed to assess the status of vitamin B12 and folate in maternal serum (MS) and umbilical cord serum (UCS). This was a planned secondary analysis of a case-control study. A total of 858 pregnant women during late pregnancy and their newborns in the hospitals of China were included. Maternal peripheral venous blood and neonatal umbilical cord blood were collected to determine serum vitamin B12 and folate concentration. Relationship of vitamin B12 or folate concentration between MS and UCS was assessed by a quantile regression model and the non-linear relationship between them was examined. Nutritional status of serum folate was better than that of vitamin B12. Prevalence of deficiency in MS vitamin B12 and folate was 73.4% and 14.2%, respectively and these figures were about 17.8% and 0.1% in UCS. Both vitamin B12 and folate levels in UCS were significantly higher than those in MS (vitamin B12: 321.0 pg/mL vs 158.3 pg/mL, folate: 16.5 ng/mL vs 7.0 ng/mL, P <0.001). The median UCS-MS ratio of vitamin B12 and folate was 2.0 (95% CI: 1.94-2.06) and 2.4 (95% CI: 2.30-2.53), respectively. The levels of folate and vitamin B12 in UCS increased nonlinearly with their increase in MS which presented an inverted U-shaped curve. Deficiency in vitamin B12 and folate in the women during late pregnancy in China is prevalent. Nutritional status of the two vitamins in umbilical cord serum is correlated nonlinearly with that in maternal serum. Folic acid supplementation may be accompanied with vitamin B12 to improve status of vitamin B12 and folate during pregnancy.

Maternal vitamin D deficiency in early pregnancy and perinatal and long-term outcomes

BackgroundVitamin D deficiency is common in pregnant women. Some studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to obstetric complications such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the potential impact of vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy on both perinatal and long-term outcomes. MethodsIn this retrospective study, conducted between 2017 and 2021, we analyzed the data of 1079 singleton pregnant women with no medical or surgical complications prior to pregnancy. We evaluated obstetric and perinatal outcomes, as well as neurodevelopmental outcomes using Bayley-III tests, Gross Motor Function Measure, or chart review. ResultsThe maternal serum vitamin D level in the first trimester was 18.2 ± 9.0 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was found in 308 (62.0%) women in the first trimester, of which 288 women (26.7%) were in the very deficient group (<10 ng/mL). There were no differences in maternal age, body mass index, and previous preterm birth between the group with vitamin D < 10 ng/mL and ≥10 ng/mL group. There were also no differences in the rates of gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth between the two groups, except for the rate of preterm birth before 37 weeks of gestation, which was significantly higher in the very deficient group (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] = 7.78, 95%CI [2.23–27.12], p = 0.001). In the very deficient group, the risk of developmental delay was also higher (aOR = 4.28, 95%CI [1.40–13.05], p = 0.011). ConclusionsThis is the first study to analyze the effects of maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy on both long-term developmental outcomes and perinatal prognosis. Vitamin D deficiency, defined as a level lower than 10 ng/mL in the first trimester, may increase the risk of preterm birth and developmental delay in children.

Maternal and Fetal Effects of Gestational Vitamin D Concentration.

Most (90%) vitamin D synthesis occurs in the skin using sunlight (ultraviolet rays), and 10% is obtained through food. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for skeletal growth and maintenance, cell proliferation and differentiation, and immune function. This study investigated whether maternal serum vitamin D concentrations induce maternofetal effects. Hematological analysis, serological changes, and precision fetal ultrasound findings were analyzed by maternal vitamin D concentration in gestational weeks 22-25 to ascertain direct effects on fetal growth. Bone density-vitamin D concentration correlation was analyzed. No hematologic or serological effect of maternal vitamin D concentration was detected; however, the sexually transmitted infection and cross-infection rates were inversely proportional to maternal vitamin D concentration. No significant correlation between vitamin D concentration and vertebral and femoral BMD was detected. For fetal growth, biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and humerus length were analyzed. Humerus (p < 0.05) and femur (p < 0.001) lengths were higher in the vitamin D-sufficient group than in the vitamin D-deficient group. Vitamin D concentration did not positively affect hematologic changes and bone density; maternal vitamin D concentration essentially affected fetal bone growth. Vitamin D inhibits sexually transmitted infections in mothers and promotes fetal bone growth. Prevention of vitamin D deficiency, supplementation, or outdoor activities is recommended.

Maternal Calcium and Vitamin D Deficiency and Their Relation with Fetal Neural Tube Defects

Background: NTDs are major birth defects associated with significant fetal loss, mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs. Although periconceptional folic acid supplementation has reduced their occurrence, NTDs remain a global concern. Recent studies have suggested a possible link between low maternal serum calcium and vitamin D levels and the development of NTDs. Objective: The objective of this prospective observational study was to investigate the relationship between maternal calcium and vitamin D deficiency during early pregnancy and the development of fetal neural tube defects (NTDs). Materials and Method: A total of 207 pregnant mothers in their first trimester were included in the study. Data on age, BMI, gestational age, and serum levels of total calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were collected. Calcium deficiency was identified in 61 (29.5%) participants, while vitamin D deficiency was present in 139 (67%). Ultrasound scans between 18-22 weeks of gestation were conducted in 173 participants to search for fetal NTDs. Results: Among the study population, only 1 (0.6%) fetus was found to have an NTD on sonographic scan. The mother of this fetus exhibited both calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. However, statistical analysis did not reveal a significant relationship between maternal calcium and vitamin D deficiency and the development of fetal NTDs. Conclusion: Deficiency of calcium and vitamin D during early pregnancy does not appear to be associated with the development of fetal NTDs. Further research is needed to explore other potential risk factors for NTDs

Serum Vitamins A and E at Mid-Pregnancy and Their Relationships with Both Maternal and Cord Blood Antioxidant Status and Perinatal Conditions: The NELA Cohort

Introduction: Most of the pregnant women do not achieve the recommended dietary intake of vitamins A and E. These vitamins may counteract oxidative stress involved in some adverse perinatal outcomes. We aimed to assess the associations between maternal vitamin A and E at mid-pregnancy with both maternal and fetal outcomes and to identify possible early biomarkers during pregnancy to predict and prevent oxidative stress in the offspring. Methods: Data on dietary and serum levels of vitamins A and E were collected from 544 pregnant women from the Nutrition in Early Life and Asthma (NELA) study, a prospective mother-child cohort set up in Spain. Results: There were large discrepancies between low dietary vitamin E intake (78% of the mothers) and low serum vitamin E levels (3%) at 24 weeks of gestation. Maternal serum vitamins A and E at mid-pregnancy were associated with higher antioxidant status not only in the mother at this time point (lower hydroperoxides and higher total antioxidant activity [TAA]) but also with the newborn at birth (higher TAA). Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was negatively associated with maternal serum vitamin A (OR: 0.95 CI: 0.91–0.99, p = 0.009) at mid-pregnancy. Nevertheless, we could not detect any association between GDM and oxidative stress parameters. Conclusions: In conclusion, maternal vitamin A and E serum levels may be used as an early potential biomarker of antioxidant status of the neonate at birth. Control of these vitamins during pregnancy could help avoid morbid conditions in the newborn caused by oxidative stress in GDM pregnancies.

Vitamin D Status in Term Newborns and Their Mothers

The aim of this study is: 1) To evaluate vitamin D serum levels of fullterm newborns and its association with the maternal levels; 2) To evaluate the diet and the intake of multivitamin supplements of women; 3) To analyze seasonal dependence in serum levels of mother-baby pairs. The prospective study was carried out between July 2018 and February 2020 at the University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Maichin dom”, Sofia. The study included 45 full-term newborns and their mothers. Data collected included maternal health, nutrition, vitamin intake, and anthropometric data of the newborns. The laboratory tests performed: maternal serum 25(OH)D levels taken in the third trimester of pregnancy and umbilical cord levels of 25(OH)D. The results show that the mean birth weight was 3234.22 ± 370.29 g and the mean gestational age was 38.13±0.89 weeks. A 25(OH)D sufficiency was found in 58% of mothers and 67% of newborns. A strong positive correlation between maternal and neonatal 25(OH)D concentrations (p = 0.007) was found. A relationship between maternal diet, vitamin supplementation and serum vitamin D levels was observed. The level of 25(OH)D in the umbilical cord in winter is lower than in summer (p = 0.002). Due to the essential role of vitamin D for the normal development of the fetus and the infant, a testing for serum levels of vitamin D during pregnancy is recommended.

Maternal Serum Vitamin B12 during Pregnancy and Offspring Autism Spectrum Disorder.

This study examined the association between maternal serum vitamin B12 levels during early pregnancy and offspring autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and subtypes. Based on a Finnish national birth cohort, case offspring (n = 1558) born in 1987-2007 and diagnosed with ASD by 2015 were matched with one control on date of birth, sex and place of birth. Maternal vitamin B12 levels were measured during first and early second trimesters of pregnancy. High maternal vitamin B12 levels (≥81th percentile) was associated with increased risk for offspring childhood autism, adjusted odds ratio, 1.59, 95% confidence interval 1.06-2.41 (p = 0.026). No significant associations were observed between maternal vitamin B12 levels and offspring Asperger's or pervasive developmental disorder/NOS.

Maternal hypovitaminosis D presenting as late-onset hypocalcemic seizure in a term neonate: a case report

BackgroundVitamin D deficiency is a known morbidity among pregnant women. Maternal hypovitaminosis D results in poor fetal transplacental vitamin D accretion and decreased stores in the neonate. This in turn may lead to hypocalcemia in neonates, having presentations from being asymptomatic and tremors to hypocalcemic seizures. There are fewer case reports of hypocalcemic neonatal seizures as a result of maternal vitamin D deficiency.Case presentationA term male neonate developed multiple episodes of multifocal seizures on day six of life associated with hypocalcemia. He was also found to have hyperphosphatemia, raised alkaline phosphatase, and elevated parathormone levels with normal serum magnesium and renal function tests. Neonate and maternal serum vitamin D3 levels were also low. A diagnosis of late-onset hypocalcemic seizure secondary to maternal hypovitaminosis D was made and the baby made an uneventful recovery with parenteral calcium and oral vitamin D supplementation. On follow-up with therapy, the baby remained asymptomatic with normal serum calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D3 levels.ConclusionHypovitaminosis D must also be considered as a contributing factor for late-onset hypocalcemic seizure in neonates.

Relationship between maternal Vitamin D levels and neonatal Vitamin D levels with delayed neonatal hypocalcemia - A hospital-based observational study

Background: Vitamin D has important role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body including calcium metabolism. Fetuses and neonates are dependent on their mothers to get adequate supply of Vitamin D. Maintaining adequate maternal Vitamin D levels may be highly beneficial for their fetuses and the babies. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to find a correlation, if any, between maternal Vitamin D status and neonatal Vitamin D levels and delayed neonatal hypocalcemia. Materials and Methods: Fifty mother infant pairs with neonatal late onset hypocalcemia were included in the study. Detailed clinical history along with simultaneous maternal and neonatal blood samples were taken for estimation of calcium, phosphorus, parathormone (intact), and Vitamin D levels. Results: Mean maternal and neonatal serum Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) levels were 19.5±7.5 and 15±8.5, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between maternal and neonatal Vitamin D levels (P=0.001). There was also a direct correlation between low maternal Vitamin D levels and delayed hypocalcemia in neonates (P=0.048). Mean maternal and neonatal serum calcium levels were 9±1.5 mg/dl and 6.2±0.4 mg/dl, respectively. There was no significant statistical correlation between the two (P&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Maternal Vitamin D level appears to be an important determinant of neonatal Vitamin D and serum calcium levels.