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Fetal Growth Restriction at High Altitude: Clinical Observations

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The Rise of Fetal and Neonatal Physiology

Part of the book series: Perspectives in Physiology ((PHYSIOL))

Abstract

In terms of the optimal conditions for fetal development, numerous investigators have noted that fetal growth and development occurs in an environment of maternal homeostasis and well-being, and with the mother’s ability to respond appropriately to a particular stress. One such stress is that of long-term hypoxia (LTH). Because fetal growth critically depends upon adequate maternal oxygenation, conditions such as residence at high altitude (>2500 m) or that of mothers who are moderate to heavy smokers or with cyanotic congenital heart disease, lung disease, severe anemia, and other conditions that cause prolonged hypoxia may be associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR) (Hutter et al. 2010; Longo 1984; Longo and Goyal 2014; Neerhof and Thaete 2008). The impact of hypoxia on embryonic/fetal biology is a function of factors such as the stage of gestation and development, severity of the hypoxic event, its duration, and its association with other confounders including acidemia, hypercapnia, and/or ischemia. In addition, and as noted, fetal growth and development critically depend upon adequate placental substrate transport and metabolism.

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  1. Longo Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA

    Lawrence D. Longo

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  1. Lawrence D. Longo
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Longo, L.D. (2018). Fetal Growth Restriction at High Altitude: Clinical Observations. In: The Rise of Fetal and Neonatal Physiology . Perspectives in Physiology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-7483-2_14

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