Effect of Maternal Preeclampsia on Hematological Profile of Newborns in Qatar

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia is a major cause of pregnancy-related maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidities and mortalities. We aimed to review the effect of maternal preeclampsia on the hematological profile of newborns in the Qatari population. METHODS: In this case-control study, we reviewed data and complete blood count results of neonates born to Qatari women diagnosed of preeclampsia in 2017 in comparison with data of a control group. Statistical analysis was done using unpaired t-test, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 108 neonates of women with preeclampsia and 103 neonates of healthy normotensive women were recruited. The mean weight, length, head circumference, placental weight, and gestational age were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in neonates born to women with preeclampsia. Only 13% of babies born to women with preeclampsia developed neonatal thrombocytopenia which is significantly higher compared to only 2% in the control group (chi-square χ(2) = 9.14; P = 0.003). No significant difference (P > 0.05) was noted between the two groups regarding the white blood cells (WBC) or the absolute neutrophilic count (ANC). Multivariate logistic regression showed that the gestational age, birth weight, length, and ANC had significant association with preeclampsia (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We found that there was a positive association between preeclampsia and neonatal thrombocytopenia in the Qatari population. Prematurity, placenta insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, and need for neonatal resuscitation were significantly higher in babies born to women with preeclampsia. We recommend that hematological parameters of neonates of those women should be properly monitored to reduce the chances of developing complications.