International Journal of Drug Research and Technology

PREMATURE CONSTRICTION OF FETAL DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS: ROLE OF MATERNAL INTAKE OF NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) AND POLYPHENOL-RICH FOODS

Abstract

Le Minh Khoi*

The fetal ductus arteriosus is essential for fetal circulatory integrity. This crucial shunt is maintained patent by intriguing interplay of dilating and constricting mechanisms involving the production of prostaglandins, endothelial nitric oxide, elevated pulmonary arterial pressure secondary to closed lungs and constricted pulmonary arterioles. Premature constriction/closure of fetal ductus arteriosus exerts profound impacts on cardiac hemodynamics constituting a life-threatening situation and may result in intrauterine fetal demise. In this brief article, we review the clinical manifestation and echocardiographic features of premature constriction of fetal ductus arteriosus as well as discuss the most common causes of this pathological condition including maternal use of NSADs, polyphenol-rich foods.