Role of Inflammatory Markers and Doppler Parameters in Late-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction: A Machine Learning Approach

Fetal growth restriction (FGR), also known as intrauterine growth restriction, is a prevalent pregnancy complication with potentially negative outcomes for newborns. The condition's causes are varied, involving genetic factors, maternal inflammation, infections, and other pathologies. FGR is categorized based on its onset: early-onset FGR occurs before 32 weeks' gestation, while late-onset happens after 32 weeks. Late-onset FGR, though less risky in perinatal complications compared to early-onset, is linked to an increased risk of hypoxemia and neurodevelopmental delays. Diagnosis primarily relies on ultrasound measurements and Doppler flow analysis of specific arteries. The study highlights the complexity of diagnosing and managing late-onset FGR, emphasizing the unclear pathophysiological mechanisms. It proposes the exploration of inflammatory processes and the potential role of new markers such as the systemic immune inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), and neutrophil-percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) for understanding FGR. These markers are easily measured through blood tests and are significant in various diseases. The text also discusses the challenges of applying advanced diagnostic methods in low-income countries due to the need for sophisticated equipment, contrasting with the accessibility of artificial intelligence and machine learning models via the internet. The study aimed to assess the impact of inflammatory processes on late-onset FGR by analyzing NPAR, along with other markers, and evaluating their predictive value using machine learning algorithms.

Inclusion criteria

• Between the ages of 18-45
• Completed their pregnancy follow-up in our center
• Pregnant women whose data can be accessed
• Singleton pregnancies without systemic maternal comorbidities other than FGR

Exclusion criteria

• Multiple pregnancies
• Having a maternal disease
• Fetal congenital and chromosomal anomalies
• Chronic drug use, alcohol and cigarette use
• Accompanying additional pregnancy complications during follow-up
• Cases whose data cannot be accessed