Condition-specific antepartum fetal testing.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the best available antepartum fetal testing methods according to the underlying pathophysiologic condition.


METHODS
We reviewed the current literature and our clinical experience with respect to condition-specific antepartum fetal testing.


RESULTS
The efficacy of most antepartum tests that we use today is not supported by randomized controlled clinical trials, but from observational nonrandomized studies and expert opinion (evidence levels II or III).


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the available evidence, the accuracy of a test depends on the underlying pathophysiologic condition. To improve accuracy, we must use condition-specific fetal testing.
Kontopoulos
Eftichia V
EV
Department of Obstetrics, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
Vintzileos
Anthony M
AM
D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011247:Pregnancy; D011295:Prenatal Care; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic