Repeated antenatal corticosteroids: effects on cerebral palsy and childhood behavior.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

This study was undertaken to determine the effects of repeated courses of antenatal corticosteroids on childhood behavior and disabilities, including cognitive delay and cerebral palsy.

STUDY DESIGN:

Nonrandomized regional cohort of 541 very preterm infants born in Western Australia from singleton pregnancies and alive at 3 years were included in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Physical, cognitive, and psychological assessments up to 6 years.

RESULTS:

Increasing numbers of antenatal corticosteroid courses were associated with a reduction in the rate of cerebral palsy. Three or more courses were also associated with increased rates of aggressive/destructive, distractible, and hyperkinetic behavior and these effects were present at both ages 3 and 6 years. Measures of internalizing behavior and intelligence quotient were unaffected by antenatal corticosteroid use.

CONCLUSION:

Repeated antenatal courses of corticosteroids may protect against cerebral palsy but are associated with hyperactivity later in childhood.

• Authors: Noel P French, Ronald Hagan, Sharon F Evans, Annie Mullan, John P Newnham
• Journal: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology (Am J Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 190 Issue 3 Pg. 588-95 (Mar 2004) ISSN: 0002-9378 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15041985 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Adrenal Cortex Hormones

Topics

• Adrenal Cortex Hormones (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Aging (psychology)
• Cerebral Palsy (prevention & control)
• Child Behavior (drug effects)
• Child, Preschool
• Cognition
• Disability Evaluation
• Drug Administration Schedule
• Female
• Humans
• Hyperkinesis (chemically induced)
• Neuropsychological Tests
• Pregnancy
• Prenatal Care