Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a condition that affects 5-10 % of gestations, and it is the second primary cause of perinatal mortality. In this review the most recent knowledge about FGR is presented focusing on its concept, etiology, classification, diagnosis, management, and prognosis.
Methods: Searches were conducted in Pubmed, Embase and Lilacs database using the term fetal growth restriction.
Results: FGR is classified as type I (symmetric), manifested early, in which there is a proportional reduction of all fetal parts, generally associated with chromosome abnormalities; type II (asymmetric), with late onset, in which there is a more accentuated reduction of the abdomen, generally related to placental insufficiency; and type III (mixed), with early manifestation, resulting from infections or exposure to toxic agents. Diagnosis may be clinical, although ultrasound associated with arterial and venous Doppler is essential for diagnosis and follow-up. Currently there is no treatment capable of controlling FGR, and the moment of interruption of pregnancy is of vital importance in order to protect maternal and fetal interests.
Conclusion: Early diagnosis of FGR is very important, because it permits the etiological identification and adequate monitoring of fetal vitality, minimizing the risks related to prematurity and intrauterine hypoxia.