Identifying causes and associated factors of stillbirths using autopsy of the fetus and placenta

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The study aimed to evaluate the causes of death and associated factors in cases of stillbirth, using post-mortem examination and applying a rigorous, evidence-based holistic approach. Methods Our retrospective observational study included cases of autopsy following stillbirth that occurred at our tertiary medical center during a period of 8 years. Detailed up-to-date criteria that incorporate clinical reports, medical history, prenatal imaging, and histopathological findings were used to evaluate the cause of death and associated factors. Results After applying our proposed methodology, 138 cases of stillbirth were classified into eight categories based on the causes of death. A definitive cause of death was observed in 100 (72%) cases, while 38 (28%) cases were considered unexplained. The leading cause of death was placental lesions (n = 39, 28%) with maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) lesions being the most common (54%). Ascending infection was the second most common cause of fetal death (n = 24, 17%) and was often seen in the setting of preterm labor and cervical insufficiency. Conclusion The largest category of cause of death was attributed to placental pathology. Using rigorous detailed up-to-date criteria that incorporate pathological and clinical factors may help in objectively classifying the cause of death.