Perinatal mortality of unspecified (unknown) etiology: problems and solutions

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization, there are about 5.9 million annual perinatal deaths worldwide, the etiology of which, on average, remains unspecified in 15–50% of cases. This review presents an analysis of the existing classification systems for causes of perinatal mortality, estimates the current data on risk factors and possible pathophysiological mechanisms of sudden fetal and infant death, identifies several world health problems that prevent the reduction of stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates, and suggests the ways of their solution. Key words: perinatal mortality, stillbirth, sudden intrauterine death syndrome, brainstem, cardiac conduction system