Key result
Antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids did not significantly reduce the incidence of fetal death compared to no treatment in fetuses with congenital heart block (9.5% vs 9.16%, OR 1.10).
Why the study?
To evaluate the outcomes of fluorinated corticosteroids, with or without other medications, for the treatment of congenital heart block in-utero.
Do antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids improve morbidity or mortality in fetuses with congenital heart block?
Systematic Review (n=740)
Yes
Do antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids improve morbidity or mortality in fetuses with congenital heart block?
Odds Ratio: 1.1 (95% CI 0.65–1.84)
Absolute Event Rate: 9.5% vs 9.16%
Antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids do not improve fetal or neonatal mortality or morbidity in congenital heart block and are associated with increased maternal and fetal complications.
Authors
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Urges caution with fluorinated corticosteroids in fetal heart block; leaves open efficacy questions pending randomized trials.
Michael et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review in Congenital heart block (n=740). Antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids vs. No treatment was evaluated on Fetal death (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.65-1.84). Antenatal fluorinated corticosteroids did not significantly reduce the incidence of fetal death compared to no treatment in fetuses with congenital heart block (9.5% vs 9.16%, OR 1.10).
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