What is the evidence? Updates in the use of antenatal corticosteroids for patients at risk of preterm birth

Abstract

Antenatal corticosteroids have long been considered one of the most important antenatal therapies available for pregnant patients at risk of preterm birth based on the associated reduction of neonatal morbidity and mortality following their administration. However, despite decades of research since their incorporation into routine clinical practice, a number of key questions related to antenatal corticosteroid use remain. These include evaluating the impact of antenatal corticosteroids at gestational ages outside of the previously recommended window of 24 0/7–33 6/7 weeks of gestation, determining factors associated with optimal steroid timing in order to reduce unnecessary exposure, alterations in its dosing regimen, and their long-term impact. The purpose of this document is to review the latest evidence on antenatal corticosteroids and recent developments in emerging topics related to their use.

Keywords

• Antenatal steroids
• Neonatal morbidity
• Neonatal mortality
• Prematurity
• Periviability
• Respiratory distress syndrome