Early detection of structural anomalies and markers of chromosomal aberrations by transvaginal ultrasonography.
Transvaginal ultrasonography is emerging as the newest method for the early detection of structural malformations and markers of chromosomal aberrations. According to a multicenter registry on the onset of fetal anomalies, many defects are potentially detectable at an early transvaginal scan. Moreover, cystic hygroma and other nuchal signs thought to indicate a very significant risk for a genetic problem detected during the first trimester may resolve and not be detected at the later abdominal scan. Current research presented in this review indicates a possible transition from an abdominal scan at 18-22 weeks to two scans: an early transvaginal scan at 12-14 weeks for the detection of gross congenital anomalies and markers of chromosomal aberrations, and then an abdominal scan at 22 weeks for cardiac and other anomalies.
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, USA.
D002869:Chromosome Aberrations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D025063:Chromosome Disorders; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal