Association between fetal liver diameter and glycemic control in pregnant women with gestational diabetes: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between fetal liver length (FLL) and maternal glycemic status in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), as well as to determine whether FLL measurement in the third trimester is associated with neonatal outcomes.

METHOD: A total of 51 singleton GDM pregnancies were included in this pilot study, and transabdominal ultrasound biometry and FLL measurements were performed between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. Maternal indicators of glycemic control, including hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), fasting blood sugar (FBS), and 2-h postprandial blood sugar were also evaluated during this period. The cases were followed up until delivery and maternal and neonatal outcomes were assessed to determine any correlation with FLL.

RESULT: The results showed a significant positive correlation between FLL and HbA1C (r = 0.464, P = 0.001), FBS (r = 0.574, P < 0.001), 2-h postprandial blood sugar (r = 0.405, P = 0.002), and AC (r = 0.515, P < 0.001). Additionally, FLL was significantly associated with fetal birth weight (r = 0.408, P = 0.003) and birth weight (r = 0.460, P = 0.001). The FLL≥95th percentile group demonstrated a higher number of polyhydramnios (p = 0.007), macrosomia (p < 0.001), and maternal intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, FLL measurement during third trimester of pregnancy is an indicator of maternal glycemic regulation and can be used as a predictor of macrosomia and neonatal birth weight in GDM pregnancies.