Question of the Week

Question :

Posted On : 13 Jan 2008

What is pathogenesis for polycythemia in infants of diabetic mothers?

Expert Answer :

No expert answer available.

Answer Discussion :

saeedelsadek

may be ateratogenic effect to fetal hyperglycemia

17 years ago

David Moore

Insulin excess

17 years ago

ANUP JALAN

relative hypoxemia

17 years ago

Jonathan Pinczower

chronic fetal insufficiency

17 years ago

pediatriconcall

In infants of diabetis mothers the fetus is subjected to high levels of glucose during times of maternal hyperglycemia. After 20 weeks' gestation, the fetus responds to hyperglycemia with pancreatic beta-cell hyperplasia and increased insulin levels. Chronic fetal hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia increase the fetal basal metabolic rate and oxygen consumption, leading to a relative hypoxic state. The fetus responds by increasing oxygen-carrying capacity through increased erythropoieten production, possibly leading to polycythemia.

17 years ago

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