The effects of Antenatal corticosteroids on neonatal morbidity and mortality

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of antenatal corticosteroid treatment on the morbidity and mortality of preterm infants. Materials and methods: This study enrolled 172 premature babies between 26 and 34 gestational weeks of age, admitted to NICU, Pediatric Clinic, Clinical University Center Sarajevo, during two years period. Babies with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), major congenital abnormalities, and those born to diabetic mothers were excluded. 80 out of 172 babies were treated with corticosteroids prenatally, 92 of 172 did not receive such treatment. The severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) was classified according to FiO2 requirements. Results: Frequency and severity of RDS was significantly lower in the group of babies antenatally treated by cortisosteroids (22/80) compared to the control group (53/92) (p<0,001). IVH-PVH and mortality rate were significantly lower in corticosteroid group. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence of sepsis and BPD between groups. Conclusion: Antenatal corticosteroid treatment significantly reduces the incidence and severity of RDS, IVH-PVH, and neonatal death but does not alter the risk of acquiring sepsis.