1
|
Sofia-Gonçalves A, Guedes-Martins L. Nuchal Translucency and Congenital Heart Defects. Curr Cardiol Rev 2024; 20:1-13. [PMID: 38275068 PMCID: PMC11107467 DOI: 10.2174/011573403x264963231128045500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Nuchal translucency comprises a temporary accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous tissue on the back of a fetus's neck, which accompanies the crown-rump length and is observed through an ultrasound performed between 11 and 13 weeks + 6 days gestation. Nuchal translucency is considered to be above normal when values are higher than the 95th/99th percentile or equal to or higher than 2.5/3.5 mm. The first connection between increased nuchal translucency and the presence of congenital heart defects is described in the study of Hyett et al., who observed that they are directly proportional. Since that time, several studies have been conducted to understand if nuchal translucency measurements can be used for congenital heart defect screening in euploid fetuses. However, there is great variability in the estimated nuchal translucency cutoff values for congenital heart defect detection. The purpose of this review was to understand how increased nuchal translucency values and congenital heart defects are related and to identify which of these defects are more frequently associated with an increase in these values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A. Sofia-Gonçalves
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Centro de Medicina Fetal, Medicina Fetal Porto - Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, 4099-001, Porto, Portugal
| | - L. Guedes-Martins
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Centro de Medicina Fetal, Medicina Fetal Porto - Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, 4099-001, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento da Mulher e da Medicina Reprodutiva, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto EPE, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Largo Prof. Abel Salazar, 4099-001, Porto, Portugal
- Unidade de Investigação e Formação – Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, 4099-001, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Khair H, Hilary S, Al Awar S, Zareba K, Maki S, Sayed G, Mutare S, El-Hattab AW, Al Ibrahim AH. Perinatal Outcomes in Foetuses with Increased Nuchal Translucency and Normal Karyotype: A Retrospective Cohort Study from the United Arab Emirates. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6358. [PMID: 37835002 PMCID: PMC10573960 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This retrospective case-controlled study analysed the outcome of pregnancies with first-trimester enlarged nuchal translucency (NT) and a normal karyotype. A total of 479 pregnancies with first-trimester NT measurements were grouped as control (370 cases; normal NT) and study (109 cases; enlarged NT, ≥95th percentile; with normal karyotype). Adverse outcomes included miscarriage, intrauterine foetal death, termination of pregnancy, neonatal death, and structural/chromosomal/genetic abnormalities. The study was conducted between June 2016 and June 2022 at the Foetal Maternal Unit of Kanad Hospital, UAE. Overall, the live birth rate in the study group was significantly lower (74.3%) compared to the control (94.1%, p < 0.001). All pregnancy outcomes of this group significantly differed compared to the control. The observed miscarriage level was 9.2% (vs. 1.1%, p < 0.001), intrauterine foetal death was 2.8% (vs. 0%, p = 0.001), spontaneous preterm birthwas 11% (vs. 4.9%, p = 0.020), and termination of pregnancy was 3.7% (vs. 0%, p < 0.001). The presence of foetal abnormalities was also significantly higher in the enlarged NT group at 21% (vs. 3.3%, p < 0.001). Results indicate that enlarged NT is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes even when the karyotype is normal. Based on these results, a comprehensive review of the guidelines for counselling and managing pregnancies with enlarged NT and a normal karyotype is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Howaida Khair
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates (K.Z.)
| | - Serene Hilary
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (S.H.)
| | - Shamsa Al Awar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates (K.Z.)
| | - Kornelia Zareba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates (K.Z.)
| | - Sara Maki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates (K.Z.)
| | - Gehan Sayed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates (K.Z.)
| | - Sharon Mutare
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (S.H.)
| | - Ayman W. El-Hattab
- Fetal Maternal Unit, Kanad Hospital, Al Ain P.O. Box 1016, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mastromoro G, Guadagnolo D, Khaleghi Hashemian N, Bernardini L, Giancotti A, Piacentini G, De Luca A, Pizzuti A. A Pain in the Neck: Lessons Learnt from Genetic Testing in Fetuses Detected with Nuchal Fluid Collections, Increased Nuchal Translucency versus Cystic Hygroma-Systematic Review of the Literature, Meta-Analysis and Case Series. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 13:diagnostics13010048. [PMID: 36611340 PMCID: PMC9818917 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal Nuchal fluid collections can manifest with two distinct presentations attributable to the same phenotypic spectrum: increased nuchal translucency (iNT) and cystic hygroma. The prenatal detection of these findings should prompt an accurate assessment through genetic counseling and testing, including karyotype, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and multigene RASopathy panel. We performed a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis, to calculate diagnostic yields of genetic testing in fetuses with iNT and cystic hygroma. We compared the results with a cohort of 96 fetuses with these isolated findings. Fetuses with isolated NT ≥ 2.5 mm showed karyotype anomalies in 22.76% of cases and CMA presented an incremental detection rate of 2.35%. Fetuses with isolated NT ≥ 3 mm presented aneuploidies in 14.36% of cases and CMA had an incremental detection rate of 3.89%. When the isolated NT measured at least 3.5 mm the diagnostic yield of karyotyping was 34.35%, the incremental CMA detection rate was 4.1%, the incremental diagnostic rate of the RASopathy panel was 1.44% and it was 2.44% for exome sequencing. Interestingly, CMA presents a considerable diagnostic yield in the group of fetuses with NT ≥ 3.5 mm. Similarly, exome sequencing appears to show promising results and could be considered after a negative CMA result.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gioia Mastromoro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina–Gemelli Isola, 00186 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: or
| | - Daniele Guadagnolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Bernardini
- Cytogenetics Unit, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Foundation, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonella Giancotti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gerardo Piacentini
- Department of Neonatology and Fetal Cardiology, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina–Gemelli Isola, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro De Luca
- Medical Genetics Division, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Antonio Pizzuti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leszczyńska K, Preis K, Respondek-Liberska M, Słodki M, Wood D, Weiner S, Gembruch U, Rizzo G, Achiron R, Pruetz JD, Sklansky M, Cuneo B, Arabin B, Blickstein I. Recommendations for Fetal Echocardiography in Twin Pregnancy in 2016. PRENATAL CARDIOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/pcard-2016-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Progress in the fields of fetal cardiology and fetal surgery have been seen not only in singleton pregnancies but also in multiple pregnancies. Proper interpretation of prenatal echocardiography is critical to clinical decision making, family counseling and perinatal management for obstetricians, maternal fetal medicine specialists, neonatologists and pediatric cardiologists. Fetal echocardiography is one of the most challenging and time-consuming prenatal examinations to perform, especially in multiple gestations. Performing just the basic fetal exam in twin gestations may take an hour or more. Thus, it is not practical to perform this exam in all cases of multiple gestations. Therefore our review and recommendations are related to fetal echocardiography in twin gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Krzysztof Preis
- 1. Department of Obstetrics, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maria Respondek-Liberska
- 2. Department of Diagnoses and Prevention Fetal Malformations, Medical University of Lodz, Poland
- 3. Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Maciej Słodki
- 3. Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
- 4. Institute of Health Sciences, The State School of Higher Professional Education in Płock, Poland
| | - Dennis Wood
- 5. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Stuart Weiner
- 6. Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ulli Gembruch
- 7. Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Giusseppe Rizzo
- 8. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università Roma Tor Vergata, Ospedela Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina, Rome, Italy
| | - Reuven Achiron
- 9. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center Tel-Hashomer, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Jay D Pruetz
- 10. Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America ; Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Mark Sklansky
- 11. Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Bettina Cuneo
- 12. Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Then Fetal Heart Program, Colorado Fetal Care Center, Colorado Institute for Maternal Fetal Health, Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Birgit Arabin
- 13. Center for Mother and Child, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Isaac Blickstein
- 14. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, 76100 Rehovot and the Hadassah-Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mula R, Grande M, Bennasar M, Crispi F, Borobio V, Martinez JM, Gratacos E, Borrell A. Further insights into diastolic dysfunction in first-trimester trisomy-21 fetuses. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2015; 45:205-210. [PMID: 24706444 DOI: 10.1002/uog.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess fetal cardiac function in first-trimester trisomy-21 fetuses as compared with fetuses with other aneuploidies, euploid fetuses with cardiac defects or isolated increased nuchal translucency (NT) and controls. METHODS During a 2.5-year period, NT, ductus venosus (DV) blood flow, diastolic filling time, early filling time, tricuspid flow, tricuspid and mitral valve E/A velocity ratios, left ventricle shortening fraction, left myocardial performance index and fetal heart rate were assessed in fetuses with a crown-rump length between 45 and 84 mm undergoing chorionic villus sampling at our center. Cardiac parameters among study groups were compared with the use of 95% CIs. RESULTS The study population comprised 28 fetuses with trisomy 21, 25 with other aneuploidies, 94 euploid fetuses with abnormal findings (27 with cardiac defects, 31 with other structural anomalies and 36 with isolated increased NT) and 271 controls. Trisomy-21 fetuses showed signs of diastolic dysfunction such as increased DV pulsatility index and E/A ratios together with a higher prevalence of tricuspid regurgitation. However, no differences were found in euploid fetuses with cardiac defects or isolated increased NT. CONCLUSIONS No signs of cardiac dysfunction were observed in euploid fetuses with increased NT or cardiac defects, while in trisomy-21 fetuses signs of diastolic dysfunction could be potentially attributed to volume overload.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Mula
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Department, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Echocardiographic assessment of embryonic and fetal mouse heart development: a focus on haemodynamics and morphology. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:531324. [PMID: 24707208 PMCID: PMC3951091 DOI: 10.1155/2014/531324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 12/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Heart development is a complex process, and abnormal development may result in congenital heart disease (CHD). Currently, studies on animal models mainly focus on cardiac morphology and the availability of hemodynamic data, especially of the right heart half, is limited. Here we aimed to assess the morphological and hemodynamic parameters of normal developing mouse embryos/fetuses by using a high-frequency ultrasound system. Methods. A timed breeding program was initiated with a WT mouse line (Swiss/129Sv background). All recordings were performed transabdominally, in isoflurane sedated pregnant mice, in hearts of sequential developmental stages: 12.5, 14.5, and 17.5 days after conception (n = 105). Results. Along development the heart rate increased significantly from 125 ± 9.5 to 219 ± 8.3 beats per minute. Reliable flow measurements could be performed across the developing mitral and tricuspid valves and outflow tract. M-mode measurements could be obtained of all cardiac compartments. An overall increase of cardiac systolic and diastolic function with embryonic/fetal development was observed. Conclusion. High-frequency echocardiography is a promising and useful imaging modality for structural and hemodynamic analysis of embryonic/fetal mouse hearts.
Collapse
|
7
|
Clur SAB, Oude Rengerink K, Mol BWJ, Ottenkamp J, Bilardo CM. Fetal cardiac function between 11 and 35 weeks' gestation and nuchal translucency thickness. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2011; 37:48-56. [PMID: 20737458 DOI: 10.1002/uog.8807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The pathophysiological background of an increased nuchal translucency (NT) is still poorly understood. Cardiac dysfunction has been proposed as a cause. The aim of this study was to determine if, in fetuses with normal hearts, the NT thickness is related to cardiac function throughout gestation. METHODS The NT was measured in 191 karyotypically/phenotypically normal fetuses with structurally normal hearts and was increased (≥ 95(th) centile) in 104. All fetuses had been referred for fetal echocardiography and were prospectively included between October 1 2003 and April 1 2009. Three-hundred and ten echocardiograms were performed between 11 and 35 weeks' gestation. The E- and A-wave velocity, E/A velocity ratio, E/time velocity integral (TVI) ratio over the atrioventricular (AV) valves, myocardial performance index, acceleration time (AT) and peak velocity over the semilunar valves, stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) as well as the ductus venosus pulsatility index for veins at 11-14 weeks' gestation (DV-PIV), were measured. A multilevel analysis was performed using the NT multiples of the median (MoM) as a continuous variable. RESULTS AV-E- and A-wave velocities, E/A velocity ratios, semilunar valve peak velocity, SV, CO and aortic valve (AoV) AT increased significantly with advancing gestation. At 11-14 weeks' gestation, the AoV-AT, tricuspid valve (TV)-E/A, TV-E/TVI ratios and DV-PIV increased, and the pulmonary valve (PV) AT decreased, with increasing NT-MoMs. After midgestation, the PV-AT increased and the AoV-AT, TV-E/A and TV-E/TVI ratios decreased with increasing NT-MoMs. CONCLUSIONS NT thickness is related to right ventricular diastolic function and semilunar valve AT. Our findings suggest improved first-trimester, but later reduced, right ventricular relaxation and discordant ventricular afterload in fetuses with an increased NT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A B Clur
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology of the Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
The first trimester (11-13 +6 weeks) ultrasound examination is useful for several reasons: determination of an accurate date of confinement, diagnostic purposes, and screening for fetal defects. Nuchal translucency measurement combined with maternal serum markers (free b-human chorionic gonadotropin and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A) is the mainstay of first-trimester screening for chromosomal defects. However, over the past decade additional ultrasound markers have been developed that improve the performance of this type of screening. The novel markers include evaluation of the nasal bone, fronto-maxillary angle measurement, and Doppler evaluations of the blood flow across the tricuspid valve and in the ductus venosus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Sonek
- Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Abstract
For many years, the main use of ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy was to confirm viability and to establish gestational age. Indeed, the crown-rump length measurement in the first trimester remains the most accurate method to estimate the gestational age even today. However, improvements in ultrasound equipment and improvement in our understanding of normal and abnormal fetal development allows us now to perform a much more complete first trimester fetal evaluation. This pertains not only to the diagnosis of fetal anomalies but also to screening for fetal defects. The combination of the nuchal translucency measurement and maternal serum biochemistries (free β-hCG and PAPP-A) has been shown to be an extremely efficient way to screen for fetal aneuploidy. The addition of other first trimester markers such as the nasal bone evaluation, frontomaxillary facial angle measurement, and Doppler evaluation of blood flow across the tricuspid valve and through the ductus venosus improves the screening performance even further by increasing the detection rates and decreasing the false positive rates. Several of the first trimester markers also are useful in screening for cardiac defects. Furthermore, significant nuchal translucency thickening has been associated with a variety of genetic and nongenetic syndromes. A recently described first trimester marker called the intracerebral translucency appears to hold great promise in screening for open spine defects. Finally, it appears that a first trimester evaluation (uterine artery Doppler and the measurement of certain biochemical markers in the maternal serum) significantly improves the assessment of the risk of preeclampsia.
Collapse
|
10
|
Clur SA, Ottenkamp J, Bilardo CM. The nuchal translucency and the fetal heart: a literature review. Prenat Diagn 2009; 29:739-48. [PMID: 19399754 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In this overview the current knowledge of the relationship between an increased nuchal translucency (NT) measurement and fetal heart structure and function in chromosomally normal fetuses is reviewed. Relevant pathophysiological theories behind the increased NT are discussed. Fetuses with an increased NT have an increased risk for congenital heart disease (CHD) with no particular bias for one form of CHD over another. This risk increases with increasing NT measurement. Although the NT measurement is only a modestly effective screening tool for all CHD when used alone, it may indeed be effective in identifying specific CHD "likely to benefit" from prenatal diagnosis. The combination of an increased NT, tricuspid regurgitation and an abnormal ductus venosus (DV) Doppler flow profile, is a strong marker for CHD. A fetal echocardiogram should be performed at 20 weeks' gestation in fetuses with an NT > or = 95th percentile but < 99th percentile. When the NT measurement is > or = 99th percentile, or when tricuspid regurgitation and/or an abnormal DV flow pattern is found along with the increased NT, an earlier echocardiogram is indicated, followed by a repeat scan at around 20 weeks' gestation. The resultant increased demand for early fetal echocardiography and sonographers with this special expertise needs to be planned and provided for.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Clur
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology of the Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine fetal and neonatal outcomes in the setting of nuchal translucency (NT) > or =3 mm at routine first-trimester screening. STUDY DESIGN A nested case-series study within a retrospective cohort of women screened for Down syndrome at 11-14 weeks of gestation. Crown-rump length, NT values and additional anomalies at first and early second trimesters were recorded. Follow-up information was obtained by a review of medical records and self-report from patients. Adverse outcomes included fetal death and termination of pregnancy due to structural or chromosomal anomalies. RESULT A total of 1930 pregnant women were screened between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. The prevalence of increased fetal NT (> or =3 mm) was 1.4% (n=27). Among these, 12 showed increased fetal NT as an isolated finding. In this group, 2 women experienced fetal demise (16%) and 10 delivered healthy babies. In the group with additional abnormalities (n=15), 9 (60%) were found to have chromosomal abnormalities, all of which were terminated. For all cases with increased fetal NT, total incidence of adverse outcome was 62%. CONCLUSION At first-trimester ultrasonography, a fetal NT > or =3 mm was associated with a high incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in the presence of associated abnormalities. For cases with the increased fetal NT at first-trimester fetal assessment and follow-up is necessary to detect possible adverse outcomes.
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
First-trimester risk assessment for fetal aneuploidy using nuchal translucency (NT) measurement is rapidly gaining popularity in the United States. In combination with maternal serum markers in the first trimester, the screening performance is exceptionally good, with detection rates of more than 80% at a screen positive rate of 5%. Recently, the method has been validated for screening for Down syndrome and other aneuploidies in multicenter trials in the United States and elsewhere. Compliance with established criteria for measurement of the NT is essential to achieve uniform reliability and high screening test sensitivity. There is an international consensus about the importance of specific training in the NT examination, conformity to standards of NT measurement, and regular audit for quality assurance. In the United States, the Nuchal Translucency Quality Review program has been developed to administer credentialing and quality review for registered practitioners. The Nuchal Translucency Quality Review credentials signify the proficiency of the sonographer or sonologist in NT measurement and participation in a regular quality assurance audit. We encourage accreditation of clinical sites offering first-trimester risk assessment to ensure the highest quality care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celeste Sheppard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sonek J. First trimester ultrasonography in screening and detection of fetal anomalies. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2007; 145C:45-61. [PMID: 17304542 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.30120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
An obstetrical ultrasound examination provides invaluable information regarding the fetus. Until the mid-1980s, ultrasound in the first trimester was limited to localization of the pregnancy, establishing viability, and accurate dating. With the advent of high-resolution ultrasound and transvaginal scanning, a significant amount of information about the fetus can be gained and provided to the patient at a very early stage in gestation. This article provides an overview of the role of first trimester (11-13 + 6 weeks' gestation) ultrasound in screening and diagnosis of fetal anomalies. The first trimester is an ideal time for screening for aneuploidy, primarily due to the advantages that nuchal translucency (NT) measurement provides. NT measurement is also useful in establishing the risk of congenital cardiac disorders and a number of genetic and non-genetic syndromes. Significant NT thickening is associated with an increase in perinatal morbidity and mortality. Potential mechanisms resulting in increased NT are discussed. A number of new ultrasound markers for fetal aneuploidy have been investigated over the past several years, some of which appear to improve the screening efficacy of early ultrasonography. The role of these is reviewed. A number of fetal anomalies can now be consistently diagnosed in the first trimester. Their appearance at this early gestational age is discussed as well. It is clear that, data obtained by first trimester ultrasound are useful in counseling expectant parents and in planning the appropriate follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Sonek
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Ultrasound and Genetics, Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton, OH 45409, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zoppi MA, Ibba RM, Floris M, Manca F, Axiana C, Monni G. Intracardiac Doppler assessment of left valve inflow in first-trimester fetuses with increased nuchal translucency: preliminary observations in trisomy 21. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2006; 28:77-81. [PMID: 16795127 DOI: 10.1002/uog.2817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To perform a qualitative assessment of the pulsed Doppler waveform profile at the level of left atrioventricular valve inflow in first-trimester fetuses with increased nuchal translucency thickness (NT), in order to compare those with trisomy 21 and those with normal karyotype. METHODS This was a review of 285 consecutive fetuses with increased NT. Pulsed Doppler velocity waveforms of left atrioventricular valve inflow were recorded. The E-wave, A-wave and velocity profile in the aorta were displayed. Cases were classified into two patterns: Pattern A included those in which the E-wave velocity crossed the A-wave before the baseline in all waveforms; Pattern B included those in which the lowest E-wave velocity crossed the baseline but not the A-wave in at least one of the profiles. The karyotype was determined and the frequency of occurrence of Patterns A or B in fetuses with normal karyotype and those with trisomy 21 were compared. RESULTS Of the 285 cases, 230 were assigned to Pattern A and 55 to Pattern B. There were 47 cases of trisomy 21, 22 had other chromosomal abnormalities, and 212 had a normal karyotype; in four cases the karyotype was unknown. Among the 212 karyotypically normal fetuses, five had heart defects, five had other structural defects, three suffered spontaneous intrauterine death and one was terminated. Pattern A was found in 200/212 (94.3%) cases with normal karyotype, in 12/47 (25.5%) cases with trisomy 21, and in 17/22 (77.3%) cases with other chromosomal abnormalities. Pattern B was found in 12/212 (5.7%) cases with normal karyotype, in 35/47 (74.5%) cases with trisomy 21 (chi-square test, P < 0.001), and in 5/22 (22.7%) cases with other chromosomal abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS Intracardiac Doppler qualitative assessment of left valve inflow in first-trimester fetuses with increased NT shows differences between normal and trisomy 21 fetuses, probably reflecting differences in myocardial function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Zoppi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Prenatal Diagnosis, Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Microcitemico, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Souka AP, Von Kaisenberg CS, Hyett JA, Sonek JD, Nicolaides KH. Increased nuchal translucency with normal karyotype. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2005; 192:1005-21. [PMID: 15846173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2004.12.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Increased fetal nuchal translucency (NT) thickness between 11 and 14 weeks' gestation is a common phenotypic expression of chromosomal abnormalities, including trisomy 21. However, even in the absence of aneuploidy, nuchal thickening is clinically relevant because it is associated with an increase in adverse perinatal outcome caused by a variety of fetal malformations, dysplasias, deformations, dysruptions, and genetic syndromes. Once the presence of aneuploidy is ruled out, the risk of perinatal outcome dose not statistically increase until the nuchal translucency measurement reaches 3.5 mm or more (>99th percentile). This increase in risk occurs in an exponential fashion as the NT measurement increases. However, if the fetus survives until midgestation, and if a targeted ultrasound at 20 to 22 weeks fails to reveal any abnormalities, the risk of an adverse perinatal outcome and postnatal developmental delay is not statistically increased.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athena P Souka
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College, London University, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Haak MC, Twisk JWR, Bartelings MM, Gittenberger-de Groot AC, van Vugt JMG. First-trimester fetuses with increased nuchal translucency do not show altered intracardiac flow velocities. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2005; 25:246-252. [PMID: 15719441 DOI: 10.1002/uog.1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study intracardiac flow velocities in first-trimester fetuses with normal nuchal translucency thickness (NT) and those with increased NT. METHODS Ultrasound examinations were performed in 85 normal fetuses and 45 fetuses with NT > 95(th) percentile. Follow-up was complete and postmortem examination was performed on terminated pregnancies. Flow velocities during the early (e-wave) and late (a-wave) peaks across the tricuspid and mitral valves were measured and compared, using multilevel analysis, between the fetuses with normal and those with increased NT. In the group with increased NT, fetuses with and without a heart defect irrespective of the karyotype were compared, and in this group, euploid and aneuploid fetuses were compared, irrespective of the presence of a heart defect. RESULTS No difference in intracardiac flow velocities was found between fetuses with normal and those with increased NT. Within the group of fetuses with increased NT, there was no difference between the fetuses with and without a cardiac defect. However, comparison of aneuploid with euploid fetuses within the group with increased NT showed that both the e-wave and a-wave peaks were decreased significantly by 3.03 cm/s and 5.95 cm/s, respectively, across the tricuspid valve, and by 3.47 cm/s and 5.92 cm/s, respectively, across the mitral valve (P < 0.05). The most common cardiac malformations were septal defects. CONCLUSION There is no difference in intracardiac blood flow velocities between normal fetuses and those with increased NT. This contradicts the theory that NT is caused by impaired atrial contraction or cardiac failure. In fetuses with increased NT, those with aneuploidy show a decreased e-wave and a-wave compared with euploid fetuses. This cannot, however, be explained by the presence of cardiac defects, because there is no difference between fetuses with and without a cardiac defect. Therefore, we hypothesize that the relationship between enlarged NT and cardiac defects can only be explained by a developmental process that coexists at this period of gestation and is linked to cardiovascular development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Carvalho JS. The fetal heart or the lymphatic system or ...? The quest for the etiology of increased nuchal translucency. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2005; 25:215-220. [PMID: 15736188 DOI: 10.1002/uog.1865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J S Carvalho
- Brompton Fetal Cardiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Huggon IC, Turan O, Allan LD. Doppler assessment of cardiac function at 11-14 weeks' gestation in fetuses with normal and increased nuchal translucency. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2004; 24:390-398. [PMID: 15343592 DOI: 10.1002/uog.1720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate cardiac dysfunction as a potential underlying mechanism for increased nuchal translucency (NT) in fetuses with chromosomal abnormality or heart defects. METHODS Myocardial performance index (MPI) and atrioventricular valve E/A ratios for both sides of the heart were measured by Doppler echocardiography in fetuses at 11-14 weeks' gestation. The study groups consisted of 159 normal control fetuses, 199 otherwise normal fetuses but with increased NT > or = 4 mm, 142 fetuses with trisomy 21, 58 with trisomy 18, 19 with trisomy 13, 37 with Turner's syndrome and 24 with isolated heart defects. Groups were compared using Student's t-test and confidence intervals for differences between groups were calculated. RESULTS Otherwise normal fetuses with increased NT showed no difference in any of the cardiac Doppler parameters from normal controls. Mean E/A ratio was slightly but significantly increased in trisomy 21 fetuses compared with normal controls (0.604 vs. 0.578 on the right, P = 0.011; 0.581 vs. 0.542 on the left, P = 0.0001). E/A ratio was not significantly different between any of the other groups and the normals but there was a small increase in absolute E-wave velocity in trisomy 18 fetuses. MPI was significantly decreased in trisomy 21 fetuses, (0.330 vs. 0.378, P = 0.002 on the left) and also in Turner's syndrome fetuses (0.301 vs. 0.352 on the right, P = 0.04; 0.320 vs. 0.378 on the left, P = 0.034) implying better performance, but not in the other groups. CONCLUSIONS The magnitude and/or direction of the differences shown do not support a major role for cardiac functional abnormality in the development of NT. Important cardiac dysfunction could not be demonstrated in association with increased NT in normal or abnormal fetuses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I C Huggon
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Current awareness in prenatal diagnosis. Prenat Diagn 2003; 23:694-700. [PMID: 12938665 DOI: 10.1002/pd.532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|