Which of the following is seen in the infant of a diabetic mother:
**Core Concept**
The infant of a diabetic mother (IDM) is a term used to describe a newborn whose mother had diabetes during pregnancy. IDMs are at risk for various complications due to the abnormal intrauterine environment. The underlying issue is the hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) experienced by the mother, which leads to an increased glucose supply to the fetus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the increased glucose supply to the fetus, which stimulates the pancreas to secrete excess insulin. This results in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in the newborn after birth, as the insulin continues to act on the glucose stores that were mobilized during fetal life. The pancreas of the IDM also becomes hyperplastic and hypertrophic, leading to an increased insulin production. This condition is known as **hypoglycemia of the newborn**.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option may seem plausible, but it is not directly related to the infant of a diabetic mother. The condition described is more commonly associated with other medical conditions.
* **Option B:** While hypocalcemia can occur in newborns, it is not a characteristic feature of the infant of a diabetic mother.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as the IDM does not typically present with polycythemia (increased red blood cell count) at birth.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
IDMs are also at risk for other complications, including macrosomia (excessive birth weight), respiratory distress syndrome, and an increased risk of neonatal hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated.
**Correct Answer:** C.