title: The application of three-dimensional ultrasonography in the prenatal diagnosis of arthrogryposis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To present the application of three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography in the early prenatal diagnosis of fetal arthrogryposis.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 26-year-old multipara had a fetus with anomalies of the limbs as shown by conventional ultrasonography at 18 weeks of gestation. A follow-up 3D ultrasonogram at the same gestational age was consistent with the diagnosis of arthrogryposis. Based on an abnormal chromosome 18p on the fetal karyotype, termination of the pregnancy was performed at 22 weeks' gestation. The outward appearance of the fetus coincided with the prenatal sonographic findings of arthrogryposis.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  As an advanced and sophisticated technology, 3D ultrasonography can serve as a useful technique for the early diagnosis of fetal anomalies, including arthrogryposis. The earlier the diagnosis is established, the earlier the appropriate management can be initiated, including counseling, additional work-up and timely termination of pregnancy, if indicated.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, and College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Gueishan,Taoyuan, Taiwan.
authors.forename: I-Wen
authors.initials: IW
authors.lastname: Lin
authors.forename: Ho-Yen
authors.initials: HY
authors.lastname: Chueh
authors.forename: Shuenn-Dyh
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Chang
authors.forename: Po-Jen
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Cheng
mesh_terms: D000032:Abortion, Therapeutic; D000328:Adult; D001176:Arthrogryposis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D011247:Pregnancy; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal / Q000379:methods*