The cross-link between maternal HbA1c and neonatal outcome: A Clinical Case Report
Keywords:
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), neonate outcome, gestational diabetes, congenital anomaliesAbstract
Introduction: Diabetes is a common condition among pregnant women, and a high glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level can indicate poor outcomes for both the mother and the fetus. This report presents a case of an unknown diabetic primigravida with a significantly elevated HbA1c level, which resulted in severe complications during pregnancy and adverse fetal outcomes.
Case Study: A 37-year-old primigravida was referred to the emergency obstetrics and gynecology clinic, where she reported a notable decrease in fetal movements and feelings of lethargy. Laboratory tests revealed a significantly elevated blood sugar level. After assessing fetal well-being, the decision was made to terminate the pregnancy at 33 weeks and 2 days due to severe fetal distress. Immediate treatment was initiated to control the high blood sugar levels. The outcome was the delivery of a preterm boy who presented with multiple biochemical imbalances and required admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Conclusion: Improving hyperglycemia and glycated hemoglobin levels to lower than the upper normal limits during both the preconception and post-conception phases can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality for mothers and their fetuses.
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