Single umbilical artery: what does it mean for the fetus? A case-control analysis of pathologically ascertained cases.
OBJECTIVE
To ascertain the frequency of chromosomal and other anomalies in fetuses with single umbilical artery.


METHODS
Placentas with single umbilical artery were identified from hospital pathology laboratory records. For each identified case, the next consecutive placenta with two umbilical arteries served as a control. Pathology records, maternal histories, and prenatal ultrasounds when available were reviewed for congenital anomalies, pregnancy complications, and maternal characteristics. When indicated, placental specimens, amniocytes, or neonatal bloods were karyotyped.


RESULTS
Single umbilical artery existed in 2.0% (97/4846) of pathological specimens. Fetuses with single umbilical artery had significantly more chromosomal (10.3% vs. 1.0%) and other congenital anomalies (27% vs. 8%).


CONCLUSIONS
The high incidence of major chromosomal and congenital anomalies justifies detailed fetal ultrasonography, echocardiography, and amniocentesis for karyotype when single umbilical artery is discovered during routine ultrasound.
Prucka
Sandra
S
Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
Clemens
Michele
M
Craven
Catherine
C
McPherson
Elizabeth
E
D000328:Adult; D000649:Amniocentesis; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000453:epidemiology; D004452:Echocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007621:Karyotyping; D008297:Male; D010920:Placenta / Q000098:blood supply; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal; D014469:Umbilical Arteries / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000473:pathology*