What examination finding helps diagnose maternal estrogen effects in newborns?

Enlarged mammary glands in newborns can be an indicator of maternal estrogen effects. This condition, known as "gynecomastia," occurs when estrogen levels are elevated during pregnancy, leading to transference of this hormone to the fetus. Newborns can exhibit temporary breast enlargement due to the impact of maternal estrogens received in utero.

This is typically a benign finding and often resolves within a few weeks after birth. Detecting this sign helps healthcare providers recognize the hormonal influences the baby was exposed to, which is particularly relevant in understanding the physiological changes and potential anomalies in newborns.

Other options, while important examination findings in their own right, do not specifically point to maternal estrogen effects. For instance, respiratory distress can arise from a variety of causes, including premature birth or pneumonia, while cardiac murmurs may suggest structural heart abnormalities. Jaundice in newborns is commonly related to conditions like hemolytic disease or metabolic disorders but does not directly link to estrogen exposure.