Authors:
Nicolaides KH. Azar G. Byrne D. Mansur C. Marks K.
Institution:
Harris Birthright Research Ctr, King's College Hospital, Medical School,London SE5 8RX; United Kingdom.
Title:
Fetal nuchal translucency: Ultrasound screening for chromosomal defects in first trimester of pregnancy.
Source:
BMJ. Vol 304(6831) (pp67-869), 1992.
Abstract:
Objectives:
To examine the significance of fetal nuchal translucency at 10-14 weeks' gestation in the prediction of abnormal fetal karyotype.
Design:
Prospective screening study.
Setting:
The Harris Birthright Research Center for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London. Subjects - 827 fetuses undergoing first trimester karyotyping by aminocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. Main outcome measure - Incidence of chromosomal defects.
Results:
The incidence of chromosomal defects was 3% (28 of 827 cases). In the 51 (6%) fetuses with nuchal translucency 3-8 mm thick the incidence of chromosomal defects was 35% (18 cases). In contrast, only 10 of the remaining 776 (1%) fetuses were chromosomally abnormal.
Conclusion:
- Fetal nuchal translucency >= 3 mm is a useful first trimester marker for fetal chromosomal abnormalities.
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