Correlation Between Placental Thickness on Ultrasonography and Histopathological Findings with Perinatal Outcome: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: The placenta plays a crucial role in fetal development, influencing
both maternal and fetal health. Its morphology and pathology are increasingly
recognized as indicators of perinatal outcome. Placental thickness measured by
ultrasonography (USG) has emerged as a non-invasive parameter potentially
predictive of fetal complications. Histopathological examination (HPE) post-delivery
further reveals detailed insights into placental health, offering diagnostic
confirmation.
Objective: This study evaluates the correlation between placental thickness as
assessed on USG and placental histopathology with perinatal outcomes in singleton
pregnancies, aiming to identify predictive markers for adverse neonatal events.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over a one-year period
at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Guwahati. A total of 120
pregnant women with singleton pregnancies at ≥34 weeks gestation were enrolled.
Placental thickness was measured ultrasonographically and categorized as thin (<30
mm), normal (30–40 mm), or thick (>40 mm). After delivery, all placentas were
subjected to detailed histopathological examination. Perinatal outcomes analyzed
included birth weight, Apgar score, meconium-stained liquor, neonatal intensive care
unit (NICU) admission, and presence of birth asphyxia. Statistical analysis was
performed using chi-square and ANOVA tests, with significance defined as p<0.05.