Fetal malformations associated with exposure to mycophenolic acid during the first trimester.

Mycophenolic acid [MPA] is a powerful inhibitor of lymphocyte proliferation. Although this drug has been used across the globe for various maternal comorbidities, multiple concerns have been raised regarding its teratogenic effects. The Food and Drug Administration has changed its category to drug category D (evidence of fetal risk) in 2007.

Outcome of Twin Pregnancies Complicated by a Single Intrauterine Death.

Objective Single intrauterine fetal death (sIUFD) occurs in approximately 6% of twin pregnancies. If it occurs in the second and third trimesters, it places the co-twin at substantial risk, including that of preterm delivery and associated comorbidities of prematurity or neonatal death. The aim of this present study was to determine the outcome of surviving co-twins following spontaneous single intrauterine fetal death.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid and SMOFlipid for Treating Parenteral Nutrition Associated Cholestasis in Infants.

Background:  Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) is frequently seen in preterm infants receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for a long duration. The pathogenesis of PNAC is believed to be multifactorial; however, phytosterols are hepatotoxic, resulting in cholestasis. A novel lipid emulsion consisting of a mixture of soybean oil, medium-chain triglycerides, olive oil, and fish oil (SMOFlipid) with a low level of phytosterols has been shown to improve cholestasis.

Effects of Probiotics and Lactoferrin on Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Preterm Infants.

Background Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates. Despite intensive research, the etiology and pathophysiology of NEC is still obscure. Evidence from recent studies and meta-analyses showed a significant role of probiotics as a prophylactic measure in reducing NEC, sepsis, and mortality.

Decisions and outcome for infants born near the limit of viability.

Background: Initiation or withholding life support at birth on infants born prematurely near the limit of viability is not an easy decision, with wide variation in practice around the world. Our aim was to review the outcome of preterm infants born near the limit of viability at 23-25 weeks gestation in our institution, with regard to resuscitation decision, survival, and major outcome measures.

Methods: We included all live newborn infants born prematurely at 23-25 weeks gestation at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre from January 2006 to December 2015.