Placenta previa Placenta previa is a common condition in which the placenta lies in the lower segment of the uterus. The placenta may avulse from the uterine wall as the lower segment begins to stretch at 28 weeks, classically resulting…
Overview Gestational trophoblastic disease is the presence of abnormal tissue derived from fetal cells. These are also known as molar pregnancies or hydatidiform moles. hCG mimics TSH, LH and FSH Classification of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Classification Example Benign (75%) Complete…
Ectopic Pregnancy An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants somewhere other than the endometrial cavity (95% in the fallopian tubes of which 70% occur in the tubal ampulla). A clinical triad of abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding and a pelvic…
Abortion Miscarriage (abortion) is defined as termination of pregnancy before 24 weeks gestation OR when fetal weight is estimated to be < 500g. The most common cause of pregnancy loss in the first trimester is fetal genetic abnormalities (aneuploidies e.g.…
Overview Early pregnancy bleeding is per vaginal bleeding before viability (WHO < 20 weeks gestation date or < 500 g fetal weight) Approximately 25% of pregnancie s experience bleeding in the first trimester. Most women need to be reassured since…
Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN) Mild, temporary respiratory distress d/t retained fluid in the foetal lungs – which is a function of how the baby was delivered. It is a self-limited condition resolves within 72 hours. MCC of neonatal…
Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS) Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) is the most common cause of respiratory distress in preterm neonates. Diagnosis is by clinical presentation and Chest X-ray. Use of antenatal steroids reduces RDS by an average of 40%.…
Overview Dehydration is a potentially life threatening condition in which the body has an insufficient amount of water for normal functioning. Volume depletion refers to the loss of electrolytes and water. 7-8 % of body weight is comprised of blood.…
Cerebral Palsy Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder caused by non-progressive brain injury or malformation resulting in permanent neurological damage. This occurs when the child’s brain is developing. Body movement and muscle coordination is primarily affected. The most common cause…
Refeeding syndrome Refeeding syndrome refers to complications that occur as a result of fluid and electrolyte changes during nutritional rehabilitation of severly ill and malnourished patients. One common complication is severe hypophosphatemia. The most common cause of death in refeeding…