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Publications

Journal Article Review Epublish 1 citation

PubMed: 39518410 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14212443

COVID-19 and Its Potential Impact on Children Born to Mothers Infected During Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review.

Diagnostics (Basel) 14(21)

Authors: Cristiana Stolojanu, Gabriela Doros, Melania Lavinia Bratu, Iulia Ciobanu, Krisztina Munteanu, Emil Radu Iacob, Laura Andreea Ghenciu, Emil Robert Stoicescu, Mirabela Dima

Affiliations

  • Doctoral School, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • 'Louis Turcanu' Emergency Hospital for Children, 300011 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Department of Pediatrics, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Center for Neuropsychology and Behavioral Medicine, Discipline of Psychology, Faculty of General Medicine, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Center for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology, Department of Neurosciences, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Department of Anatomy and Embriology, 'Victor Babes' Univeristy of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Department of Pediatric Surgery, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Department of Functional Sciences, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Radiology and Medical Imaging University Clinic, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Research Center for Medical Communication, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Field of Applied Engineering Sciences, Specialization Statistical Methods and Techniques in Health and Clinical Research, Faculty of Mechanics, 'Politehnica' University Timisoara, 300222 Timisoara, Romania.
  • Department of Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.

Abstract

Pregnancy is a vulnerable period of time during which pregnant people are prone to infections like COVID-19, which can increase risks for both the mother and fetus. These infections may lead to complications such as preterm birth, developmental delays, and congenital abnormalities. While COVID-19 poses additional risks like placental dysfunction and neonatal infections, studies on long-term effects remain limited. Ongoing research and monitoring are essential to understand and mitigate potential cognitive and developmental challenges in children born to mothers infected with COVID-19. This review aims to guide clinicians in managing these risks throughout childhood. Maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy can have significant implications for fetal development, even if the newborn is not infected at birth. The release of inflammatory cytokines may cross the placental barrier, potentially disrupting fetal brain development and increasing the risk of long-term cognitive and behavioral issues, such as ADHD or autism. Placental dysfunction, caused by inflammation or thrombosis, can lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, or hypoxia, affecting both neurological and respiratory health in newborns. Furthermore, a compromised fetal immune system can increase susceptibility to autoimmune conditions and infections. The early diagnosis and management of infections during pregnancy are crucial in mitigating risks to both the mother and fetus. Swift intervention can prevent complications like preterm birth and long-term developmental challenges, ensuring better health outcomes for both the mother and child. Long-term monitoring of children born to mothers infected with COVID-19 is necessary to understand the full extent of the virus's impact. This review evaluates the long-term systemic effects of maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy on fetuses, newborns, and children, focusing beyond vertical transmission. It highlights the broader impacts on fetal development, offering insights to help clinicians manage potential issues that may arise later in life.

MeSH

Pregnancy, Mothers, Parturition, Infant, Newborn, Child Development, Covid-19, Premature Birth, Fetal Development, Fetal Growth Retardation, Fetus, Infections, Child