North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

How is asymmetric fetal growth retardation characterized?

1. Reduced body size with normal brain size

2. Normal body size with reduced brain size

3. Overall reduced body and brain size

4. Excess body size with reduced brain size

The correct answer is: Reduced body size with normal brain size

Asymmetric fetal growth retardation is characterized by a situation where the growth of the fetus is not uniform, leading to a specific pattern of growth restriction. This condition typically results in a reduced body size while the brain size remains normal. The reason behind this is that the brain has higher priority for nutrients and oxygen during fetal development. Therefore, in cases of asymmetric growth retardation, the fetal body size diminishes while the brain develops adequately. This contrasts with other types of growth restrictions, where both the body and brain may be affected or where the brain is smaller despite a normal body size, reflecting different underlying pathophysiologies. Recognizing this characteristic pattern is crucial for the assessment and management of fetal growth concerns. Understanding asymmetric growth can help healthcare providers tailor their monitoring and interventions for affected pregnancies.