Spot Incidence and Outcome of Complications in Infants of Diabetic Mothers

diabetes is the most common medical complication of pregnancy. A nationwide population-based survey revealed that nearly 4 percent of pregnant women have diabetes mellitus (DM): 88 percent had gestational DM, defined as glucose intolerance that appears during pregnancy, whereas 12 percent were women known to have diabetes. Of those with pregestational diabetes, 35 percent had type I, and 65 percent had type 2 diabetes (Correa et al, 2008).Out of the general diseases that affect the pregnant mother (DM) has one of the most important effects on the fetus (Kemball et al, 1970). Its ill-effect on the outcome of pregnancy in terms of high rates of foetal loss, neonatal deaths and congenital malformations has been known for many years (Esakof et al, 2009).The fetal and neonatal events attributable to fetal hyperglycemia and fetal hyperinsulinemia are presented in (Figure 1). This concept had its ontogeny in the Pederson hypothesis, which states that maternal hyperglycemia result in fetal hyperglycemia because glucose readily traverses the placenta (Pederson, 1977).The following standard form of management for infants of diabetic mothers Ullmo et al, 2007), include:1. The baby is resuscitated as required.2. Examination is carried out to exclude congenital anomalies.3. A stomach tube is passed to exclude atresia of the esophagus.4. The baby is placed in an incubator for 24 - 48 hours and given premature care.5. Intravenous fluids made up of 10 - 12% dextrose solution and 10 mEq of sodium bicarbonate are infused at a rate of 60 -75 ml/kg/24 hours.6. Complications such as hypoglycemia and respiratory distress are looked for and promptly treated.7. Oral feeds are started after 24 - 48 hours.