First Trimester Screening for Pre-eclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction
Abstract
This paper is an analysis of the effectiveness of various first trimester markers in detecting uteroplacental insufficiency. The various parameters used for screening in 3373 women were uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) >90th percentile, maternal characteristics, mean arterial pressure (MAP), PAPP-A lower than 0.5 MoM, and PlGF test. Adverse pregnancy outcomes related to uteroplacental insufficiency, namely low birth weight, fetal loss, delivery before 36 weeks (due to abnormal fetal Doppler or oligohydramnios), and hypertension were assessed. Adverse outcomes were found in 37 % of patie...
Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine - May 29, 2016 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research
Amniocentesis
Abstract
Amniocentesis is the most common invasive prenatal diagnostic procedure worldwide. It is a technique of withdrawing amniotic fluid from the uterine cavity using a needle, via a transabdominal approach, under continuous ultrasound guidance, in order to obtain a sample of fetal exfoliated cells, transudates, urine, or secretions. The amniotic fluid contains amniocytes and fetal epithelial cells. Amniotic fluid can be tested directly or grown in culture for various chromosomal, bio-chemical, molecular, and microbial studies. Amniocentesis for genetic testing is generally performed between the gestat...
Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine - May 26, 2016 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research
Prediction of Pre-eclampsia
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a disease of high maternal, fetal, and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Early recognition, ideally in the first trimester of women at risk for PE will enable prophylaxis and help reduce associated adverse outcomes. No single test is supported by robust evidence to predict PE and no single test has emerged as a front runner. Screening based on risk factors has low sensitivity. Uterine artery Doppler is the primary screening modality for prediction of PE. Individually, no biomarker has shown to have sufficient clinical value in prediction of PE. However, sFlt-1/PlGF ratio per...
Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine - May 26, 2016 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research
Isolated Intra-abdominal Umbilical Vein Varix: A Case Report
Abstract
A 28-year-old primigravida was referred at 24 weeks of gestation for growth scan. Ultrasound revealed an ovoid anechoic intra-abdominal structure. Color Doppler showed its continuity with umbilical vein and venous flow within it. A diagnosis of umbilical vein varix was made. Thereafter, the fetus was monitored at two weekly intervals. Due to increase in size of varix and development of echoes, an elective cesarean section was performed at 34 weeks. The baby cried at birth with a normal postnatal outcome. (Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine)
Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine - May 24, 2016 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research
Cordocentesis
Abstract
Cordocentesis is an ultrasound-guided procedure to obtain fetal band from umbilical cord. It is indicated for rapid evaluation of fetal karyotype, fetal hematological disorders, and identification of fetal infection. Results are available in 48–72 h. If patient presents late and the results from amniocentesis would not be available within time for elective termination of pregnancy, it is the preferred procedure. Therapeutic indications include intravascular cord transfusion in Rh isoimmunization, fetal anemia, or drug administration. Procedure is performed from 18 weeks of gestation onward. U...
Source: Journal of Fetal Medicine - May 20, 2016 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research
