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  • Title: Preterm birth and carotid diameter and stiffness in childhood.
    Author: Bonamy AK, Andolf E, Martin H, Norman M.
    Journal: Acta Paediatr; 2008 Apr; 97(4):434-7. PubMed ID: 18363953.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND AND AIM: Low birthweight, either as a result of poor foetal growth or preterm birth, is a risk factor for stroke in adult life. Carotid stiffening, an early marker of atheromatous disease, has been found in low-birthweight children born at term. We hypothesized that carotid artery growth and dynamic properties are permanently affected by preterm birth. METHODS: Carotid artery stiffness and dimensions in 56 school children, 39 born very preterm (mean gestational age [GA] 29 weeks) and 17 controls born at term, were studied by ultrasonic measurements of the pulsatile movements of the vessel wall. RESULTS: The carotid artery diameter was 6.4 mm both in children born preterm and at term (p=0.99). No difference in carotid stiffness was found. Within the preterm group, no differences could be seen between those born small for gestational age (SGA) or appropriate for gestational age (AGA). CONCLUSIONS: Carotid artery elasticity and structure are not altered after preterm birth. The mechanisms behind the increased stroke risk in adults born preterm remain unresolved.
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