Neonatal Hypoglycemia Research Articles

Acute insulin-induced hypoglycemia in twin neonates

Twin neonates with a history of exogenous insulin administration by a mother suffering from post-partum psychosis are reported. Twin 1 presented with lethargy, while twin 2 presented with apnea and bradycardia, requiring vigorous resuscitation. During their neonatal intensive care unit stay, both the babies developed multiple episodes of symptomatic refractory hypoglycemia with seizures and were managed with intravenous dextrose boluses and infusion, glucagon infusion, octreotide, diazoxide, and glucocorticoids. Although short-acting regular insulin (Actrapid, Novo Nordisk™) preparation was administered to the neonates, its effects were seen for a duration of 3–4 days, probably due to the depot effect. We highlight the importance of history taking and physical examination for early diagnosis and appropriate management.

Variability in Diagnosis and Management of Hypoglycemia in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Hypoglycemia, the most common metabolic derangement in the newborn period remains a contentious issue, not only due to various numerical definitions, but also due to limited therapeutical options which either lack evidence to support their efficacy or are increasingly recognized to lead to adverse reactions in this population. This study aimed to investigate neonatologists' current attitudes in diagnosing and managing transient and persistent hypoglycemia in newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). A web-based electronic survey which included 34 questions and a clinical vignette was sent to U.S. neonatologists. There were 246 survey responses with most respondents using local protocols to manage this condition. The median glucose value used as the numerical definition of hypoglycemia in first 48 hours of life (HOL) for symptomatic and asymptomatic term infants and preterm infants was 45 mg/dL (2.5 mmol/L; 25-60 mg/dL; 1.4-3.3 mmol/L), while after 48 HOL the median value was 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L; 30-70 mg/dL; 1.7-3.9 mmol/L). There were various approaches used to manage transient and persistent hypoglycemia that included dextrose gel, increasing caloric content of the feeds using milk fortifiers, using continuous feedings, formula or complex carbohydrates, and use of various medications such as diazoxide, glucocorticoids, and glucagon. There is still large variability in current practices related to hypoglycemia. Further research is needed not only to provide evidence to support the values used as a numerical definition for hypoglycemia, but also on the efficacy of current strategies used to manage this condition. · Numerical definition of glucose remains variable.. · Strategies managing transient and persistent hypoglycemia are diverse.. · There is a need for further research to investigate efficacy of various treatment options..

Gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes in Chinese women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: evidence from a tertiary hospital in Beijing.

To examine the effects of gestational weight gain on pregnancy outcomes and determine the optimal range of weight gain during pregnancy for Chinese women with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This retrospective cohort study included 691 Chinese women with type 2 diabetes mellitus from 2012 to 2020. The study utilized a statistical-based approach to determine the optimal range of gestational weight gain. Additionally, multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the impact of gestational weight gain on pregnancy outcomes. (1) In the obese subgroup, gestational weight gain below the recommendations was associated with decreased risks of large for gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06-0.60) and macrosomia (aOR 0.18; 95% CI 0.05-0.69). In the normal weight subgroup, gestational weight gain below the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine was associated with decreased risks of preeclampsia (aOR 0.18; 95% CI 0.04-0.82) and neonatal hypoglycemia (aOR 0.38; 95% CI 0.15-0.97). (2) In the normal weight subgroup, gestational weight gain above the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine was associated with an increased risk of large for gestational age (aOR 4.56; 95% CI 1.54-13.46). In the obese subgroup, gestational weight gain above the recommendations was associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia (aOR 2.74; 95% CI 1.02, 7.38). (3) The optimal ranges of gestational weight gain, based on our study, were 9-16kg for underweight women, 9.5-14kg for normal weight women, 6.5-12kg for overweight women, and 3-10kg for obese women. (4) Using the optimal range of gestational weight gain identified in our study seemed to provide better prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes. For Chinese women with type 2 diabetes, inappropriate gestational weight gain is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and the optimal range of gestational weight gain may differ from the Institute of Medicine recommendations.

Association of Fetal Catecholamines With Neonatal Hypoglycemia

Perinatal stress and fetal growth restriction increase the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia. The underlying pathomechanism is poorly understood. In a sheep model, elevated catecholamine concentrations were found to suppress intrauterine insulin secretion, followed by hyperresponsive insulin secretion once the adrenergic stimulus subsided. To determine whether neonates with risk factors for hypoglycemia have higher catecholamine concentrations in umbilical cord blood (UCB) and/or amniotic fluid (AF) and whether catecholamines are correlated with postnatal glycemia. In a prospective cohort study of 328 neonates at a tertiary perinatal center from September 2020 through May 2022 in which AF and UCB were collected immediately during and after delivery, catecholamines and metanephrines were analyzed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Participants received postnatal blood glucose (BG) screenings. Risk factor for neonatal hypoglycemia. Comparison of catecholamine and metanephrine concentrations between at-risk neonates and control participants, and correlation of concentrations of catecholamines and metanephrines with the number and severity of postnatal hypoglycemic episodes. In this study of 328 neonates (234 in the risk group: median [IQR] gestational age, 270 [261-277] days; and 94 in the control group: median [IQR] gestational age, 273 [270-278] days), growth-restricted neonates showed increased UCB median (IQR) concentrations of norepinephrine (21.10 [9.15-42.33] vs 10.88 [5.78-18.03] nmol/L; P < .001), metanephrine (0.37 [0.13-1.36] vs 0.12 [0.08-0.28] nmol/L; P < .001), and 3-methoxytyramine (0.149 [0.098-0.208] vs 0.091 [0.063-0.149] nmol/L; P = .001). Neonates with perinatal stress had increased UCB median (IQR) concentrations of norepinephrine (22.55 [8.99-131.66] vs 10.88 [5.78-18.03] nmol/L; P = .001), normetanephrine (1.75 [1.16-4.93] vs 1.25 [0.86-2.56] nmol/L; P = .004), and 3-methoxytyramine (0.120 [0.085-0.228] vs 0.091 [0.063-0.149] nmol/L; P = .008) (P < .0083 was considered statistically significant). Concentrations of UCB norepinephrine, metanephrine, and 3-methoxytyramine were negatively correlated with AF C-peptide concentration (rs = -0.212, P = .005; rs = -0.182, P = .016; and rs = -0.183, P = .016, respectively [P < .017 was considered statistically significant]). Concentrations of UCB norepinephrine, metanephrine, and 3-methoxytyramine were positively correlated with the number of hypoglycemic episodes (BG concentration of 30-45 mg/dL) (rs = 0.146, P = .01; rs = 0.151, P = .009; and rs = 0.180, P = .002, respectively). Concentrations of UCB metanephrine and 3-methoxytyramine were negatively correlated with the lowest measured BG concentration (rs = -0.149, P = .01; and rs = -0.153, P = .008, respectively). Neonates at risk for hypoglycemia displayed increased catecholamine and metanephrine concentrations that were correlated with postnatal hypoglycemic episodes and lower BG levels; these results are consistent with findings in a sheep model that fetal catecholamines are associated with neonatal β-cell physiology and that perinatal stress or growth restriction is associated with subsequent neonatal hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. Improving the pathomechanistic understanding of neonatal hypoglycemia may help to guide management of newborns at risk for hypoglycemia.

406 A CTS Team Approach to Identifying Risk of Neonatal Hypoglycemia and its Relationship with Endothelial Dysfunction

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Neonatal hypoglycemia is seen in 65% of maternally diabetic pregnancies, and can lead to severe neurological damage. Neonatal glycemia may also be an indicator of placental function in these pregnancies. The purpose of this study is to identify patterns of neonatal glycemia, and associated endothelial dysfunction, by maternal diabetes subtype. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Pregnancies with maternal Type 1 (T1DM), Type 2 (T2DM), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are being enrolled. Maternal hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and umbilical cord insulin/glucose are being collected from 20 pregnancies in each group, 10 of which also undergo placental/umbilical cord tissue collection. Following delivery, neonatal blood glucose levels are also collected every 3-4 hours (4+ measurements) to determine rate of glycemic change. Linear regression modeling will be used to determine associations with placental and umbilical endothelial RNA expression, umbilical cord insulin levels, and maternal HbA1c within each diabetic subtype and between normoglycemic and hypoglycemic neonates. Endothelial gene expression will be compared using paired t-tests with Benjamini-Hochberg correction. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Thus far, 5 T1DM, 10 T2DM, and 13 GDM samples have been collected. Gestational age at delivery and birth weight were similar between groups (38.1 ± 1.05 weeks; 3.6 ± 0.59 kilograms) and delivery method is evenly distributed (Cesarean section or vaginal delivery). Currently, with limited cohort size, no association is evident between maternal HbA1c and umbilical cord glucose/insulin (p=0.114) or neonatal hypoglycemia diagnosis (p=0.674) when controlled for gestational age and infant birthweight. We hypothesize that, with pending analyses, maternal HbA1c and umbilical cord insulin levels will correlate negatively with the rate of neonatal glycemic change, and positively with the level of inflammatory and angiogenic transcription identified in placental and umbilical endothelium. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Characterization of postnatal glucose control is key to prognosis and risk stratification of infants of diabetic mothers. Understanding placental response to glucose, as well as sequela in the fetal endothelium, is also critical to understanding the pathogenesis of neonatal hypoglycemia and other adverse outcomes of diabetic pregnancy.

Characterization of the zebrafish as a model of ATP-sensitive potassium channel hyperinsulinism

IntroductionCongenital hyperinsulinism (HI) is the leading cause of persistent hypoglycemia in infants. Current models to study the most common and severe form of HI resulting from inactivating mutations in the...

Prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus risk factors in singleton pregnancies obtained by assisted reproductive technology: An observational, retrospective, real-world study from a pregnancy registry

AIMSSeveral studies showed that Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) could affect gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) onset. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of GDM risk factors in a cohort of women with singleton pregnancy obtained by ART and complicated by GDM. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were explored. METHODSWe retrospectively collected data of pregnancies of women with singleton pregnancy obtained by ART and complicated by GDM consecutively cared for at a specialized center for diabetes and pregnancy care. Prevalence and combination of GDM risk factors, their combinations and maternal-fetal outcomes were estimated. RESULTSOverall, our cohort included 50 women (mean age of 40.4 ± 4.7 years, mean pre-pregnancy BMI 26.3 ± 6.2 kg/m2). The most frequent GDM traditional risk factors were age ≥ 35 years (94 %), family history of diabetes (44 %), overweight (29 %) and obesity (19 %). Combining risk factors, 5 groups were identified with 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 risk factors with a prevalence respectively of 28 %, 46 %, 20 %, 4 %, and 2 %. Examining features of the above groups, pre-pregnancy weight (p < 0.0001) and pre-pregnancy BMI (p < 0.0001) statistically significant differed in the 5 groups, increasing with higher numbers of risk factors. Regarding neonatal outcomes only neonatal hypoglycemia (p = 0.03) differed significantly among the groups, with higher percentages in women with higher numbers of combined risk factors. CONCLUSIONPrevalence of GDM traditional risk factors in singleton ART pregnancies complicated by GDM is considerable. Such pregnancies need appropriate clinical attention because of the risk of adverse outcomes.

Effect of Maternal Obesity on Pregnancy Outcomes and Metabolic Consequences

Background: Maternal obesity has emerged as a critical public health issue with profound implications for both maternal and neonatal health. The increasing prevalence of obesity among women of reproductive age underscores the urgency of examining its impact on pregnancy outcomes and the metabolic health of offspring. Previous studies have identified associations between maternal obesity and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), and cesarean delivery, as well as long-term metabolic disturbances in offspring. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of maternal obesity on pregnancy outcomes and to elucidate the potential metabolic consequences for offspring, contributing to the understanding of intergenerational transmission of metabolic risk. Methods: Conducted at the Gyne B Unit of Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, this retrospective cohort study included 6,910 obstetric admissions from January to December of the previous year. Pregnant women aged 18-45 years with singleton pregnancies were included, excluding those with pre-existing medical conditions. BMI was calculated from self-reported pre-pregnancy weight and height. Outcomes analyzed included GDM, HDP, mode of delivery, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, stillbirth, and neonatal mortality. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests, and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Among the participants, 55.7% were of normal weight, 20.6% overweight, and 18.4% obese. Obese pregnant women demonstrated significantly higher rates of GDM (8.6% vs. 23.7%, p=0.001), HDP (18.3% vs. 6.4%, p=0.011), and cesarean delivery (55.7% vs. 30.1%, p=0.003) compared to their normal-weight counterparts. Offspring of obese mothers had a higher incidence of fetal macrosomia (10.2% vs. 5.4%, p=0.001) and neonatal hypoglycemia (10.4% vs. 6%, p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The study confirms the significant association between maternal obesity and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including increased risks of GDM, HDP, and cesarean delivery. Furthermore, offspring of obese mothers are at an elevated risk of metabolic disturbances, indicating the necessity of addressing maternal obesity to improve health outcomes for both mothers and their children.

Brain magnetic resonance imaging review suggests unrecognised hypoglycaemia in childhood.

Neonatal and early-life hypoglycaemia, is a frequent finding but is often non-specific and asymptomatic, making detection and diagnosis challenging. Hypoglycaemia-induced cerebral injury can be identified by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes in cerebral white matter, occipital lobes, and posterior parietotemporal regions. It is unknown if children may have hypoglycaemic brain injury secondary to unrecognised hypoglycaemia in early life. We have examined retrospective radiological findings of likely brain injury by neuroimaging to investigate the existence of previous missed hypoglycaemic events. Retrospective MRI data in children in a single tertiary centre, over a ten-year period was reviewed to identify potential cases of unrecognised early-life hypoglycaemia. A detailed search from an electronic radiology repository involved the term "hypoglycaemia'' from text-based reports. The initial report was used for those who required serial scanning. Images specific to relevant reports were further reviewed by a designated paediatric neuroradiologist to confirm likely hypoglycaemia induced brain injury. Medical records of those children were subsequently reviewed to assess if the hypoglycaemia had been diagnosed prior to imaging. A total of 107 MR imaging reports were identified for review, and 52 (48.5%) showed typical features strongly suggestive of hypoglycaemic brain injury. Medical note review confirmed no documented clinical information of hypoglycaemia prior to imaging in 22 (42%) patients, raising the likelihood of missed hypoglycaemic events resulting in brain injury. We have identified the existence of unrecognised childhood hypoglycaemia through neuroimaging review. This study highlights the need for heightened awareness of early life hypoglycaemia to prevent adverse neurological outcomes later in childhood.

Transitional Neonatal Hypoglycemia and Adverse Neurodevelopment in Midchildhood

The circumstances under which neonatal hypoglycemia leads to brain damage remain unclear due to a lack of long-term data on the neurodevelopment of affected children. As a result, diagnostic strategies and treatment recommendations are inconsistent. To evaluate whether the occurrence of severe transitional neonatal hypoglycemia (defined as having at least 1 blood glucose measurement of 30 mg/dL or below) is associated with adverse neurodevelopment in midchildhood. This cohort study using neurodevelopmental testing of a retrospectively recruited cohort was conducted at a single-center tertiary hospital in Germany between March 2022 and February 2023. Children with neonatal blood glucose screening data were randomly selected from all births between 2010 and 2015. Frequency matching for sex, birth weight, gestational age, socioeconomic status, and primary risk factors for neonatal hypoglycemia was performed. Children with persistent hypoglycemia diseases or any risk factor for adverse neurodevelopment except hypoglycemia were excluded. Data were analyzed between February 2023 and March 2023. At least 1 neonatal hypoglycemia measurement with blood glucose measuring 30 mg/dL or below vs all measured blood glucose levels above 30 mg/dL during postnatal blood glucose screening starting on the first day of life. Cognitive function measured by full-scale IQ test. Secondary outcomes included standardized scales of motor, visual, and executive functions, and child behavior, each measured at ages 7 to 11 years. A total of 140 children (mean [SD] age 9.1 [1.3] years; 77 male [55.0%]) participated in the study. Children with severe neonatal hypoglycemia had a 4.8 points lower mean full-scale IQ than controls (107.0 [95% CI, 104.0-109.9] vs 111.8 [95% CI, 108.8-114.8]). They showed a 4.9-fold (95% CI, 1.5-15.5) increased odds of abnormal fine motor function and a 5.3-fold (95% CI, 2.1-13.3) increased odds of abnormal visual-motor integration. Significantly higher T scores for attention problems (58.2 [95% CI, 56.1-60.2] vs 54.6 [95% CI, 52.6-56.6]) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms (58.2 [95% CI, 56.2-60.2] vs 54.7 [95% CI, 52.8-56.7]) were reported by parents. Neonatal hypoglycemia with blood glucose levels of 30 mg/dL or below was associated with an increased risk for suboptimal neurodevelopmental outcomes in midchildhood. These findings imply that treatment strategies should aim to prevent episodes of hypoglycemia at these severely low levels.

To know or not to know: Effect of third-trimester sonographic fetal weight estimation on outcomes of large-for-gestational age neonates.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of late third-trimester sonographic estimation of large for gestational age fetuses on pregnancy management and selected fetal and maternal adverse outcomes. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary, university-affiliated medical center between 2015 and 2019. All singleton large-for-gestational-age neonates born during this period were included. The cohort was divided into two groups: neonates for whom fetal weight was estimated on late third trimester (<14 days before delivery) sonography and neonates with no recent fetal weight estimation. The groups were compared for pregnancy management strategies, rates of labor induction, cesarean deliveries, and maternal and neonatal outcomes. A total of 1712 neonates were included in the study, among whom 791 (46.2%) had a late third-trimester fetal weight estimation (study group) and 921 (53.8%) did not (control group). Compared to the control group, the study group was characterized by higher rates of maternal primiparity (24.20% vs 19.20%, P = 0.013), higher maternal body mass index (26.0 ± 6.2 kg/m2 vs 24.7 ± 4.5 kg/m2, P = 0.002), more inductions of labor (29.84% vs 16.40%, P < 0.001) and cesarean deliveries (31.0% vs 19.97%, P < 0.001). There were no clinical differences in neonatal birth weight (4041 ± 256 g vs 3984 264 g, P < 0.001) and no significant differences between other neonatal outcomes, as rates of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, jaundice, hypoglycemia, and shoulder dystocia. Late third-trimester sonographic fetal weight estimation is associated with a higher rate of labor induction and planned and intrapartum cesarean deliveries. In this retrospective cohort study, those interventions did not lead to reduction in maternal or neonatal adverse outcomes.

Discrete glucose profiles identified using continuous glucose monitoring data and their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes

Continuous glucose monitoring has facilitated the evaluation of dynamic changes in glucose throughout the day and their effect on fetal growth abnormalities in pregnancy. However, studies of multiple continuous glucose monitoring metrics combined and their association with other adverse pregnancy outcomes are limited. This study aimed to (1) use machine learning techniques to identify discrete glucose profiles based on weekly continuous glucose monitoring metrics in pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes mellitus and (2) investigate their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study analyzed data from a retrospective cohort study of pregnant patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus who used Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring and delivered a nonanomalous, singleton pregnancy at a tertiary center between 2019 and 2023. Continuous glucose monitoring data were collapsed into 39 weekly glycemic measures related to centrality, spread, excursions, and circadian cycle patterns. Principal component analysis and k-means clustering were used to identify 4 discrete groups, and patients were assigned to the group that best represented their continuous glucose monitoring patterns during pregnancy. Finally, the association between glucose profile groups and outcomes (preterm birth, cesarean delivery, preeclampsia, large-for-gestational-age neonate, neonatal hypoglycemia, and neonatal intensive care unit admission) was estimated using multivariate logistic regression adjusted for diabetes mellitus type, maternal age, insurance, continuous glucose monitoring use before pregnancy, and parity. Of 177 included patients, 90 (50.8%) had type 1 diabetes mellitus, and 85 (48.3%) had type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study identified 4 glucose profiles: (1) well controlled; (2) suboptimally controlled with high variability, fasting hypoglycemia, and daytime hyperglycemia; (3) suboptimally controlled with minimal circadian variation; and (4) poorly controlled with peak hyperglycemia overnight. Compared with the well-controlled profile, the suboptimally controlled profile with high variability had higher odds of a large-for-gestational-age neonate (adjusted odds ratio, 3.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-9.89). The suboptimally controlled with minimal circadian variation profile had higher odds of preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio, 2.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-6.24), cesarean delivery (adjusted odds ratio, 2.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-7.46), and neonatal intensive care unit admission (adjusted odds ratio, 4.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.58-11.40). The poorly controlled profile with peak hyperglycemia overnight had higher odds of preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio, 2.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-6.52), large-for-gestational-age neonate (adjusted odds ratio, 3.72; 95% confidence interval, 1.37-10.4), neonatal hypoglycemia (adjusted odds ratio, 3.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.37-9.71), and neonatal intensive care unit admission (adjusted odds ratio, 3.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.20-9.09). Discrete glucose profiles of pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes mellitus were identified through joint consideration of multiple continuous glucose monitoring metrics. Prolonged exposure to maternal hyperglycemia may be associated with a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes than suboptimal glycemic control characterized by high glucose variability and intermittent hyperglycemia.

Glucose tolerance test with a single abnormal value as a predictor of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multicenter retrospective study

Clinical implication of a single abnormal value (SAV) in the 100 g oral glucose tolerance test during pregnancy has not been established. We aimed to evaluate the risk of postpartum type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and investigate adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with SAV, using a retrospective database, from seven medical centers of Korea. Based on the Carpenter-Coustan criteria using two-step approach, pregnancy and postpartum outcomes were compared, among normoglycemic, SAV, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) groups. Among 9353 women, 342 (3.66%) and 418(4.47%) women were included in SAV and GDM groups, respectively. SAV and GDM groups showed significantly higher rates of postpartum T2DM than normoglycemic group (7.60%, 14.83%, and 1.82%, respectively, p < 0.001). And SAV group showed significantly higher rates of pregnancy associated hypertension, preterm birth, and neonatal hypoglycemia and sepsis, compared to normoglycemic group (neonatal sepsis, p = 0.008; the others, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, postpartum T2DM was associated with SAV, GDM (with/without insulin), nulliparity, pre-pregnancy BMI, chronic hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and DM family history. A scoring model to predict postpartum T2DM within 5 years, achieved an area under the curve of 0.74. This study demonstrated that not only GDM, but also SAV is a significant risk factor for postpartum T2DM.

Continuous glucose monitoring metrics in pregnancy with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Managing diabetes during pregnancy is challenging, given the significant risk it poses for both maternal and foetal health outcomes. While traditional methods involve capillary self-monitoring of blood glucose level monitoring and periodic HbA1c tests, the advent of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems has revolutionized the approach. These devices offer a safe and reliable means of tracking glucose levels in real-time, benefiting both women with diabetes during pregnancy and the healthcare providers. Moreover, CGM systems have shown a low rate of side effects and high feasibility when used in pregnancies complicated by diabetes, especially when paired with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pump as hybrid closed loop device. Such a combined approach has been demonstrated to improve overall blood sugar control, lessen the occurrence of preeclampsia and neonatal hypoglycaemia, and minimize the duration of neonatal intensive care unit stays. This paper aims to offer a comprehensive evaluation of CGM metrics specifically tailored for pregnancies impacted by type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Late preterm antenatal steroid use and infant outcomes in a single center.

To characterize late preterm antenatal steroids (AS) use and associated neonatal outcomes in a single academic center. Retrospective study of 503 singleton, mother-infant dyads delivered between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks gestation between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020. Forty-three percent did not receive AS (No AS) prior to delivery. Among AS treated, 50% were sub-optimal dosing. No AS had higher preterm premature rupture of membranes and maternal diabetes. AS group had lower mean gestational age, birthweight, longer time from admission to delivery and longer NICU stay. There was no difference in neonatal hypoglycemia. Sub-optimal AS dosing in late preterms remains high in our center. AS did not improve neonatal outcomes. Studies are needed to evaluate the impact of AS in diabetics delivering late preterm, to optimize the timing of AS dosing, and evaluate the longer term impact on late preterm infants.

Efficacy of Different Treatment Approaches (Insulin and Metformin) in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

Background and Purpose: The pharmacotherapy options in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are insulin or oral antihyperglycemic agents. Insulin is the preferred medication for treating hyperglycemia, but in recent years, metformin has been increasingly used in the treatment of GDM. Aim: The aim is to assess the efficacy of different treatments (insulin and metformin) in women with GDM. Methods: Screening for GDM was performed in 2422 pregnant women and revealed GDM in 119 women [75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed at 24–28 weeks of gestation]. All patients started treatment at 24–29 weeks of gestation. The patients were divided into two groups (Gr.): Gr. 1 had 68 patients treated with diet and insulin therapy. Gr. 2 had 51 patients treated with diet and metformin. Results: In the 2nd trimester, HbA1c (%) levels for Gr. 1 and Gr. 2 were 6.7 (0.05) and 6.4 (0.6), respectively. By term, HbA1c levels statistically decreased in both groups, but we did not find a statistical difference between the groups. Women from Gr. 2 gained less weight compared to Gr. 1 (1.89 ± 3.88 vs. 4.53 ± 3.67 kg; P = 0.003). In Gr. 1, the percentage of preeclampsia was 2.9%, and in Gr. 2, 3.9% (P = 0.7773, OR – 1.33). We did not find a statistical difference between the groups. The incidence of preterm delivery before 37 weeks of gestation in Gr. 1 was lower than in Gr. 2 (P = 0.7311, OR – 1.33), and we also did not find a statistical difference between the groups. Perinatal mortality was observed in Gr. 1 – 1.4% and in Gr. 2 – 1.9% (P = 0.8402, OR – 1.33). In both groups, we observed a high percentage of cesarean section (Gr. 1 – 32.3% and Gr. 2 – 29.4% (P = 0.7651, OR -1.0909), but we did not find a statistical difference between the groups. In both groups, the percentage of macrosomia was high, despite good glycemic control maintained through pregnancies: 20.0% and 23.0% for Gr. 1 and Gr. 2, respectively (P = 0.9236, OR – 1.0256), and again no statistical difference was found between the groups. Percent of neonatal hypoglycemia was lower in Gr. 2 (1.9%) than in Gr. 1 (4.41%) (P = 0.9236, OR – 1.0256). Percent of respiratory distress syndrome was 2.94% and 3.92% for Gr. 1 and Gr. 2, respectively (P = 0.9694, OR – 0.9893), with no statistical difference between the groups. Conclusion: We did not find differences between patients treated with diet and insulin therapy and patients treated with diet and metformin. The percentage of preeclampsia, preterm delivery, macrosomia, and perinatal death were similar in both groups; only maternal weight gain was lower in the metformin group.

Exposure of Pregnancy to Pregestational Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, and Antidiabetic Medications With Especial Focus on Major Congenital and Cardiac Malformations in Offspring.

The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing. T2DM is more common in patients with psychiatric disorders and those who take certain psychotropic drugs. T2DM occurs in 2%-7% of women of reproductive age. The prevalence of pregestational diabetes is 0.5%-2.4%, and that of gestational diabetes is 7%-28%, depending on geographical region. About 20%-50% of pregnancies, across the world, are unplanned; this figure is higher, at about 65%, in women with psychiatric disorders. As a result, many women of reproductive age who have diabetes, including women who do not know that they have diabetes, may unintentionally become pregnant, thus unknowingly exposing their pregnancy to diabetes and its treatment. Exposure of pregnancy to pregestational and gestational diabetes is associated with risks to the mother as well as risks to the child. Risks to the mother include obesity, hypertension, and preeclampsia. Risks to the child include spontaneous abortion, fetal death, macrosomia, major congenital malformations (MCMs), preterm delivery, neonatal hypoglycemia, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. A recent large retrospective cohort study with data from 6 countries in Europe, Asia, and North America found that, in about 51,000 women with pregestational T2DM, neither MCMs nor cardiac malformations were more prevalent in offspring of children periconceptionally exposed to second-line antidiabetic treatments relative to exposure to insulin. These findings are reassuring but have limitations that are discussed. A reasonable conclusion from a reading of the reviewed literature is that pregestational and gestational diabetes are best treated during pregnancy, that insulin is a first-line treatment, that metformin is an increasingly accepted alternative, and that safety data on second-line antidiabetic treatments are, so far, reassuring.

Nutritional Interventions in Gestational Diabetes: A Nursing Perspective in Obstetrics

The study assessed the effectiveness of individualized nutritional counseling conducted by nurses in managing gestational diabetes mellitus. The intervention emphasized self-management and dietary adherence by organizing balanced meals, selecting foods with low glycemic index, and counting carbohydrates. This cross-sectional study identified 140 pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus via convenient sampling. The research employed a systematic approach through structured questionnaires for data collection and hemoglobin A1c tests to assess glycemic regulation. The findings revealed substantial enhancements in glycemic control, as evidenced by the noteworthy reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels from 5.9% before the intervention to 5.4% following it (P &lt; 0.05). In addition to the decreased glycemic index of consumer foods, dietary modifications increased fiber consumption and decreased carbohydrate intake (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, the participants demonstrated a substantial adherence to the nutritional plan (84.7%) and conveyed contentment with the counseling they received (4.3 on a five-point scale). The research documented favorable changes in levels of physical activity and enhancements in health outcomes for both the mother and the newborn. These improvements encompassed reduced rates of preterm birth, fewer C-sections, and a decline in neonatal hypoglycemia instances.

Clinical Population about Diabetes during Pregnancy: A Systematic Literature Review

Diabetes during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and pre-existing diabetes, presents significant challenges to maternal and fetal health. Clinical populations encompass diverse pregnant individuals, each with unique risk factors and outcomes related to diabetes in pregnancy. This systematic literature review aimed to synthesize findings from eligible studies conducted between January 1, 2020, and December 30, 2023, sourced from Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Database of literature Reviews, to comprehensively examine diabetes during pregnancy within clinical populations. We followed established systematic review methodologies, including study selection, data extraction, and analysis. Eligible studies underwent rigorous screening to ensure relevance and quality. Data were systematically extracted to identify trends and patterns in epidemiology, risk factors, clinical management, and outcomes. Among the 15 eligible studies, our analysis revealed variations in the prevalence of diabetes during pregnancy across clinical populations, ranging from 5% to 15%. Socioeconomic factors, ethnicity, and maternal age were significant risk factors. Clinical management strategies varied, with insulin therapy predominant in pre-existing diabetes cases (68%) and dietary interventions in GDM (45%). Fetal macrosomia occurred in 18% of cases, while neonatal hypoglycemia affected 14% of infants born to mothers with diabetes. This systematic literature review highlights the multifaceted nature of diabetes during pregnancy in clinical populations. Variations in prevalence and risk factors underscore the importance of tailored healthcare interventions. Diverse management approaches necessitate individualized care plans. The prevalence of adverse outcomes necessitates vigilant monitoring and timely interventions. Our findings inform evidence-based practices research priorities, and support improved care for pregnant individuals with diabetes in clinical populations.

Transient Neonatal Hypocortisolism in Neonates with Hypoglycemia - Coexistence or Cause?

Infants born preterm, with low birth weight (LBW), or with perinatal stress are at high risk for neonatal hypoglycemia. Low cortisol levels have also been demonstrated in this group of neonates, which is often transient. We report a series of neonates with transient hypocortisolism who had neonatal hypoglycemia. A descriptive study on clinic-biochemical parameters of a group of five neonates who had persistent neonatal hypoglycemia and had demonstrated low cortisol on critical sample testing. All five neonates had birth weights below normal and four were born preterm. A history of perinatal asphyxia was seen in four cases and neonatal sepsis in two. During critical sample testing (when blood glucose [BG] was <50 mg/dl), hyperinsulinism (Insulin >2 mIU/ml) was seen in three infants whereas insulin was undetectable in two. The median cortisol during critical sample testing was 1.9 mcg/dl (0.88 - 3.7). Critical GH was normal in all, and ACTH ranged from 7.2 pg/ml to 41.3 pg/ml. None of the infants had overt clinical features of panhypopituitarism or primary adrenal insufficiency. USG brain revealed germinal matrix hemorrhage in two infants, which resolved on follow-up. USG adrenals and electrolytes were normal in all. Four of the five babies were started on oral hydrocortisone, to which they responded well with the resolution of hypoglycemia. No adverse events were noted. On follow-up, the median time to recover of serum cortisol to normal was 4 months. The contribution of transient hypocortisolism to hypoglycemia in infants at risk, including preterm, LBW, or those with perinatal stress, in the presence or absence of hyperinsulinism, is not well known. While the non-specific use of glucocorticoids is not advocated, the role of therapeutic glucocorticoids among at-risk neonates with documented hypocortisolism during hypoglycemia should be an area for research. Close follow-up of these neonates for spontaneous recovery of cortisol levels is warranted.