Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Infants Who Experience Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Abstract

IUGR has been believed to lead to worse neurodevelopmental outcomes than if an infant had appropriate fetal growth. This is true at all gestational ages, although the literature supports a stronger association for late preterm and term infants than for preterm infants born at fewer than 32 weeks’ gestation. Recent evidence points to growth restriction as a risk factor for emotional and behavioral disorders as well. The specific cause of the growth restriction is an important factor in assessing risk for poor outcomes. Treatments to reduce the risk of adverse outcome include more advanced antenatal assessment to determine time of delivery, optimizing pre- and postnatal nutrition and growth, and the possible use of growth hormone as well as early intervention services.