MATERNAL FLOOR INFARCTION OF THE PLACENTA - PRENATAL-DIAGNOSIS AND CLINICAL-SIGNIFICANCE

Objective: To determine whether maternal floor infarction can be diagn osed prenatally. Methods: We reviewed the charts of 13 patients with m aternal floor infarction confirmed histopathologically to determine th e frequency of increased placental echogenicity, fetal growth restrict ion (FGR), and oligohydramnios. Subsequently, we applied these criteri a prospectively to diagnose maternal floor infarction in three cases. Results: Twelve of the 13 pregnancies reviewed retrospectively resulte d in small for gestational age infants, of which eight were stillbirth s. Fetal growth restriction and oligohydramnios were evident on ultras ound in five pregnancies and a placental abnormality was noted in four ; two patients exhibited this complete triad of sonographic abnormalit ies. Three patients were identified prospectively with maternal floor infarction based on sonogaphic findings and electively delivered live preterm infants. Conclusions: Maternal floor infarction is a placental condition with profound risk for FGR and stillbirth. Antenatal diagno sis may improve the perinatal outcome with this condition.