THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RETARDATION AND MATERNAL THROMBOPHILIA

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) contributes to fetal morbidity and mortality, but its etiology is unknown in most cases. Our aim was to indicate the association between thrombophilia (genetic and acquired) and IUGR. A case-control study of 185 pregnant women with compensated and decompensated forms of placental insufficiency and IUGR has been conducted, with a control group (n=50) consisted of women who had normal growth fetuses. This case-controlled study demonstrated significantly higher prevalence of genetic and acquired thrombophilia in women with IUGR compared to women with normal pregnancies. However, further studies which employ randomized controlled trials and determine the preventive effect of the administration of LMWH (Low-molecular-weight heparin) and/or low-dose aspirin on women in risk groups for thrombophilia are required for a establishing a definitive relationship. Pregnant women with genetic or acquired thrombophilia belong to a high-risk group for the onset of intrauterine grown restriction syndrome. Our study included a small number of patients. To evaluate a more accurate relationship it is required to perform randomized controlled trials and determine potential benefits of administration of LMWH and/or low-dose aspirin in order to provide prophylaxis of IUGR in risk groups with genetic and acquired thrombophilia.