Eduardo Félix Martins Santana

To evaluate the characteristics and the occurrence of fetal heart diseases and arrhythmias in pregnancies that underwent fetal echocardiography examination during COVID-19 pandemic. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data extracted from the Fetal Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine Departments of Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil, from January to December 2021. The sample was analyzed using chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, and Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney test. Logistic regression was performed to assess the risk of fetal arrhythmia and/or heart disease. A total of 148 fetuses were included in the analysis. The prevalence of fetal heart disease/arrhythmia was higher among patients with maternal comorbidities (73.3% vs. 39.1%), fetal defects (14.3% vs. 0.8%), and functional abnormalities (26.7% vs. 4.5%). Maternal COVID-19 showed no significant association with fetal cardiac outcomes. Maternal comorbidity, fetal malformation, and the presence of functional abnormalities were identified as independent risk factors. Maternal comorbidities were associated with fetal arrhythmia and/or heart disease, but no causal relationship was found between COVID-19 and adverse fetal cardiac outcome.

Congenital anomalies of the digestive system, particularly in the esophagus and stomach, present significant challenges to neonatal health due to their complex management and associated risks of morbidity and mortality. This narrative review explores esophageal and gastric anomalies, addressing the embryology, prevalence, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches, with an emphasis on early detection and improved outcomes. Because of recent advances in prenatal imaging, such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance, diagnostic accuracy has increased, allowing better clinical planning and management. Studies reveal that gastrointestinal anomalies account for approximately 20% of congenital malformations globally, having a substantial impact on neonatal health and healthcare systems. This review discusses critical anomalies, including esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, antral stenosis, and antral atresia, with a focus on diagnostic criteria, surgical interventions, and prognostic factors. By highlighting current knowledge and best practices, we aim to underscore the importance of early, accurate diagnosis and continuous follow-up, which can ultimately improve neonatal outcomes and quality of life.

RhD alloimmunization in pregnancy is still the main cause of hemolytic disease of the fetus and neonate (HDFN). Nevertheless, there are other antigens that may be associated with the occurrence of this phenomenon and that have been growing in proportion, given that current prevention strategies focus only on anti-RhD antibodies. Although not widespread, the […] Abstract RhD alloimmunization in pregnancy is still the main cause of hemolytic disease of the fetus and neonate (HDFN). Nevertheless, there are other antigens that may be associated with the occurrence of this phenomenon and that have been growing in proportion, given that current prevention strategies focus only on anti-RhD antibodies. Although not widespread, the […]