From the Research
Relationship Between Cystic Fibrosis Carriers and Intrauterine Growth Restriction
- There is limited direct research on the relationship between Cystic Fibrosis (CF) carriers and Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, a study on the genetics of cystic fibrosis suggests that CF carriers may be at increased risk for certain conditions, including those related to growth and development 2.
- Another study found that idiopathic IUGR is associated with histological changes in the placenta, including reduced terminal villi and increased syncytial knots, fibrinoid necrosis, and stromal fibrosis 3.
- A case study reported a patient with severe IUGR and post-natal growth retardation who was a carrier of a de novo mosaic maternal isodisomy of a chromosome 7 segment, which includes the CFTR gene 5.
- While there is no direct evidence linking CF carriers to IUGR, these studies suggest that genetic factors, including those related to CF, may contribute to the development of IUGR 1, 2, 5.
Potential Mechanisms
- The relationship between CF carriers and IUGR may be related to the genetic mechanisms underlying CF, including mutations in the CFTR gene 2.
- The study on idiopathic IUGR suggests that placental insufficiency may play a role in the development of IUGR, and that genetic factors may contribute to this insufficiency 3.
- The case study on mosaic maternal uniparental isodisomy for chromosome 7q21-qter suggests that genetic rearrangements may also contribute to the development of IUGR 5.
Implications
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between CF carriers and IUGR 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Genetic testing and counseling may be important for individuals with a family history of CF or IUGR 2, 4.
- The study on idiopathic IUGR highlights the importance of considering genetic factors in the diagnosis and treatment of IUGR 3.