Extrachorial placentation increases risk of
## **Core Concept**
Extrachorial placentation, also known as marginal or circumvallate placentation, refers to a type of placental development where the chorionic villi invade the endometrium but not deeply enough, leading to abnormal placental implantation. This condition can affect maternal-fetal exchange and increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. Abruptio placenta**, is associated with extrachorial placentation because this type of placentation can lead to a higher risk of placental abruption. In extrachorial placentation, the placenta may not be properly anchored to the uterine wall, which can cause it to separate prematurely, leading to abruptio placenta. This condition is characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, which can cause maternal bleeding, fetal distress, and even death if not promptly treated.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A: Preeclampsia**. While preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and often accompanied by significant amounts of protein in the urine, it is not directly caused by extrachorial placentation. However, abnormal placentation is a common underlying factor in preeclampsia, but the direct risk association with extrachorial placentation is more closely related to mechanical issues like abruption.
- **Option B: Placenta previa**. This condition involves the placenta covering the cervical os, which can cause bleeding during pregnancy. While abnormal placentation is a factor, the specific risk of placenta previa is more related to the location of the placenta rather than the depth of invasion.
- **Option D: Gestational diabetes**. This condition is related to insulin resistance during pregnancy and is not directly related to the mechanical or structural aspects of placentation.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that abnormal placentation, including extrachorial placentation, can significantly increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm labor, fetal growth restriction, and, as mentioned, abruptio placenta. Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring pregnancies with suspected abnormal placentation.
## **Correct Answer: C. Abruptio placenta**