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Published in: Pediatric Radiology 3/2009

Open Access 01-03-2009 | Original Article

Brain ultrasonography findings in neonates with exposure to cocaine during pregnancy

Authors: Marian van Huis, Anne A. M. W. van Kempen, Myrthe Peelen, Maaike Timmers, Kees Boer, Bert J. Smit, Rick R. Van Rijn

Published in: Pediatric Radiology | Issue 3/2009

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Abstract

Background

Cocaine exposure during pregnancy has been reported to have detrimental effects on the fetus.

Objective

To describe the findings on cranial ultrasonography (CUS) as part of a neonatal screening programme for exposed neonates.

Materials and methods

The study was a semiprospective analysis of a 12-year cohort of neonates born to mothers who had used cocaine during their pregnancy and who had follow-up according to a strict clinical protocol.

Results

In total, 154 neonates (78 boys, 76 girls) were included, of whom 29 (19%) were born preterm, and 125 (81%) were born full-term. Abnormalities on CUS were seen in 37 neonates (24%; 95% CI 18–31%). The abnormalities were classified as minor in 20 (13%; 95% CI 9–19%) and mildly abnormal in 17 (11%; 95% CI 7–17%). None of the infants showed severe abnormalities. The abnormalities were not associated with the duration or maximum amount of cocaine use during pregnancy.

Conclusion

None of the infants had severe abnormalities. Detected abnormalities were not correlated with the duration or maximum amount of cocaine use. Given these findings, we feel that routine cranial ultrasonography in this population is not warranted.
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Metadata
Title
Brain ultrasonography findings in neonates with exposure to cocaine during pregnancy
Authors
Marian van Huis
Anne A. M. W. van Kempen
Myrthe Peelen
Maaike Timmers
Kees Boer
Bert J. Smit
Rick R. Van Rijn
Publication date
01-03-2009
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Pediatric Radiology / Issue 3/2009
Print ISSN: 0301-0449
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1998
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-008-1079-3

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