[Early diagnosis of embryo-fetal malformations by transvaginal echography in a high-risk population].
BACKGROUND
High resolution transvaginal sonography permits, in respect of traditional transabdominal scan, an earlier diagnosis of some fetal anomalies and malformations.


METHODS
In our prospective study, between 11th to 16th weeks gestation, 820 pregnant patients at high risk for chromosomopathies and for fetal malformations were scanned in order to obtain a detailed survey of embryofetal structures and organs and an earlier diagnosis of fetal malformations.


RESULTS
Thirty-two fetal anomalies and malformations (3.9%) were detected, and in 4 cases (0.49%) the diagnosis was obtained later in pregnancy. Fetuses with structural malformations were scanned during pregnancy and, if possible, postnatally. We reconsidered the pitfalls in relation to the time of transvaginal scan and the fetal pathology.


CONCLUSIONS
En early prenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies by transvaginal sonography is related to the knowledge of normal embryofetal development and the pathogenesis of malformations.
Rosati
P
P
Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma.
Guariglia
L
L
D000328:Adult; D004622:Embryo, Mammalian / Q000002:abnormalities*; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005333:Fetus / Q000002:abnormalities*; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D008423:Maternal Age; D008875:Middle Aged; D011247:Pregnancy; D012307:Risk Factors; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal