Noninvasive diagnosis by Doppler ultrasonography of fetal anemia due to maternal red-cell alloimmunization

Article Abstract:

Using ultrasound to measure blood flow in the middle cerebral artery of a fetus may identify those with anemia caused by maternal red-cell alloimmunization. This condition occurs when the mother's immune system produces antibodies against fetal red blood cells. This destroys the cells, causing anemia, fluid accumulation, and often death. Amniocentesis is sometimes used to detect this condition, but it is an invasive procedure. In a study of 111 fetuses at risk of anemia from maternal red-cell alloimmunization, ultrasound measurement of middle cerebral artery blood flow detected all of the fetuses that had anemia.

Ultrasound imaging

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Noninvasive testing for fetal anemia

Article Abstract:

Measuring blood flow through the middle cerebral artery of the fetus can identify babies who have fetal anemia. This is due to the fact that the body increases blood flow to the brain to compensate for the anemia. Amniocentesis and cordocentesis are usually used for this purpose but both are invasive and may harm both mother and baby. A 1999 study showed that apeak systolic blood flow of 1.5 times the median for gestational age identified all babies who had moderate to severe anemia.

Editorial, Fetus, Medical examination

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Doppler ultrasonography versus amniocentesis to predict fetal anemia

Article Abstract:

A study tests the hypothesis that Doppler ultrasonography of the middle cerebral artery is not inferior to measurement of amniotic-fluid at a wavelength of 450 nm {[Delta] OD450}. Findings indicate that Doppler measurement of the peak velocity of systolic blood flow in the middle cerebral artery can safely replace invasive testing in the management of Rh-alloimmunized pregnancies.

United States, Usage, Comparative analysis, Amniocentesis, Doppler ultrasonography, Prenatal diagnosis, Fetal malnutrition

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