The article below summarizes a roundtable discussion of a study published in this issue of the Journal in light of its methodology, relevance to practice, and implications for future research. Article discussed:
Wikström A-K, Svensson T, Kieler H, et al. Recurrence of placental dysfunction disorders across generations. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2011;205:454.e1-8.
Discussion Questions
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What were the investigators’ overall aims?
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What was the study design?
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Was the statistical approach reasonable?
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What information is contained in the tables?
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What are the strengths and weaknesses of this study?
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What are the clinical implications of the research?
Women who were the product of a difficult pregnancy may find that medical history repeats itself when they become pregnant. A new study by Wikström et al examined whether the risk for disorders of placentation in pregnancy—preeclampsia, placental abruption, spontaneous preterm birth, and stillbirth—was higher when 1 parent had been born small for gestational age (SGA), another outcome related to abnormal placentation. An intergenerational linkage would suggest a genetic predisposition to these complications. If a true hereditary tendency did exist, genetic technologies could be help pinpoint useful treatments. Journal Club members agreed the work was important, considering the prevalence and morbidity of these conditions.
See related article, page 454
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