Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Fetal Macrosoma

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Fetal Macrosoma

The term fetal macrosomia is used to describe a newborn who's much larger than average.

Insight:

• A baby who is diagnosed as having fetal macrosomia weighs more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces (4000 grams), regardless of gestational age.
• Approximately 9% of babies worldwide weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces.
• Risks associated with fetal macrosomia increase greatly when birth weight is more than 9 pounds, 15 ounces (4500 grams).
• Fetal macrosomia may complicate vaginal delivery and can put the baby at risk of injury during birth.
• Fetal macrosomia also puts the baby at increased risk of health problems after birth.
• Symptoms may include the fundal height, which is the length from the top of the uterus to the pubic bone, and excessive amniotic fluid.
• Causes may be genetic.
• Risk factors may include maternal diabetes, maternal obesity, previous pregnancies, having a boy, overdue pregnancy, and maternal age.
• Treatment may include possible C-section, monitoring the mom and the baby after birth, and preventive measures to control the underlying disease conditions the mom and the baby will have.

Sources:

• Fetal macrosomia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
• fetal macrosomia - Google Search