Understanding Intrauterine Growth Restriction through Placental Histopathology: A Regional Perspective from Central India

Dr. Shantanu Shembekar, Dr. Manjushri Waikar

Abstract: Introduction: Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) is a major obstetric complication associated with increased perinatal morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from multifactorial causes, among which placental insufficiency plays a central role. Histopathological evaluation of the placenta can offer critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of fetal growth restriction. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between placental pathology and birth weight in IUGR cases at a tertiary care center in Central India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 2.5 years involving 100 pregnant women with ultrasonographically diagnosed IUGR. Clinical data including maternal age, BMI, parity, socioeconomic status, and hypertensive disorders were collected. Antenatal Doppler indices such as umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) and cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) were recorded. After delivery, placentas were grossly and histologically examined for lesions including infarction, chorangiosis, syncytial knotting, and fetal thrombotic vasculopathy. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and Fisher?s exact tests. Results: Maternal age ?20 years and BMI <18.5 were significantly associated with low birth weight (p=0.0001 and p=0.001 respectively). Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were present in 64% of cases and showed a strong correlation with low birth weight (p=0.0001). Placental weight <450g was significantly associated with birth weight <2.5 kg. Key histopathological lesions placental infarction, chorangiosis, syncytial knotting, and fetal thrombosis were significantly more frequent in low birth weight cases (p<0.05). Cumulative analysis showed that specific combinations of placental pathologies were highly predictive of adverse neonatal outcomes (p=0.0001). Conclusions: Placental pathology is a significant determinant of fetal growth outcomes in IUGR. Early identification of maternal risk factors and timely placental assessment can guide better clinical management and improve neonatal health.

Keywords: Intrauterine growth restriction, placental pathology, birth weight, syncytial knotting, chorangiosis, fetal thrombosis, maternal risk factors

How to Cite?: Dr. Shantanu Shembekar, Dr. Manjushri Waikar, "Understanding Intrauterine Growth Restriction through Placental Histopathology: A Regional Perspective from Central India", Volume 14 Issue 5, May 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1203-1208, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR25402183254, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR25402183254