Twins, asymmetric growth restriction, and perinatal morbidity.
OBJECTIVE
Our objective in this study was to evaluate decreased weight/length ratio as a correlate of perinatal morbidity in twins.


METHODS
Rates of weight/length ratio less than 10% (low WL) were compared in 986 neonates from twin gestations and 4929 matched singletons. Low WL was compared with birth weight less than 10% (SGA) and 25% birth weight discordance as a marker for perinatal depression and neonatal mortality.


RESULTS
Both SGA (42% vs 8%) and low WL (38% vs 8%) occurred more commonly in twins. Low WL was a better correlate of depression and mortality than SGA or 25% birth weight discordance. After adjustment for major anomalies, prematurity, and low WL, perinatal morbidity in twins and singletons did not differ.


CONCLUSIONS
Low WL, a marker of asymmetric growth restriction, is a better marker for perinatal morbidity in twins than SGA or 25% discordance. Twins and singletons have similar rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality after adjustment for anomalies, prematurity, and growth restriction.
Williams
M C
MC
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Tampa 33606, USA.
O'Brien
W F
WF
D001827:Body Height; D001835:Body Weight; D004200:Diseases in Twins; D005183:Failure to Thrive / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007230:Infant, Low Birth Weight; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D009017:Morbidity; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors