A prospective case-control study to compare the clinical outcomes and metabolic profile in neonates born to diabetic mothers in a tertiary care armed forces hospital, India

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is on the rise especially in women of Asian ethnicity. GDM carries with it a multitude of foeto-maternal complications, the management of which is still a challenge, especially in developing countries. Methods: This was a hospital based prospective case control study conducted on 100 neonates to compare clinical outcomes and metabolic profiles in neonates of diabetic mothers and neonates of non-diabetic mothers over a period of two years. Results: The mothers in GDM group had 66% emergency lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) compared to 32% in non-GDM group (p = 0.001). The infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) had statistically significant higher percentage of preterm births, NICU admission, hyperbilirubinemia, hypoglycaemia and polycythemia. The anthropometric and cord blood parameters (Haemoglobin, haematocrit, platelet, calcium and bilirubin) were comparable in both the groups. Conclusions: GDM poses significant risks to both mother and neonate, however optimal glycemic control and meticulous monitoring and treatment protocols can reduce the incidence of certain known complications.