Embryological Basis of Disease Flashcards
When is the 1st trimester?
From week 1 to the end of week 12
What does a first trimester screening consist of?
- USS
2. Maternal biochemistry (blood test)
What does a second trimester screening consist of?
- USS (much more detailed)
2. Maternal biochemistry (blood test) if needed
What information does first trimester USS provide?
- Current gestational age
- Due date
What is CRL?
Crown-rump length (CRL) is the measurement of the length of human embryos and foetuses from the top of the head (crown) to the bottom of the buttocks (rump).
Can be used to estimate gestational age.
What info does maternal blood test provide in first trimester?
T21 (Down’s), T18 (Edward’s), T13 (Patau’s)
What is trisomy 18 Edward’s syndrome?
A baby with Edwards’ syndrome has 3 copies of chromosome number 18 instead of 2. This affects the way the baby grows and develops.
Very low chance of survival (5-15 days).
What is trisomy 13 Patau’s syndrome?
3 copies of chromosome 13, instead of 2.
This severely disrupts normal development and, in many cases, results in miscarriage, stillbirth or the baby dying shortly after birth.
Babies with Patau’s syndrome grow slowly in the womb and have a low birth weight, along with a number of other serious medical problems (cardiac defects)
What does the combined screening test in the first trimester consist of?
- Papp-A
- hCG
- NT
What is NT?
Nuchal Translucency
Thickness of the skin at the back of the neck is measured.
Normal < 3.5mm
What is implied if NT is thick?
As nuchal translucency size increases, the chances of a chromosomal abnormality and mortality increase.
When is NT only significant?
Between 10 and 14 weeks of gestation
What can abnormal NT indicate?
May be excessively oedematous. Blockage of fluid in the developing foetal lymphatic system.
The foetal lymphatic system is developing and the peripheral resistance of the placenta is high. After 14 weeks the lymphatic system is developed and will drain away the excess fluid and after this time any abnormalities causing fluid accumulation may seem to correct and can go undetected by nuchal screening.
What is the quad test?
A maternal blood screening test that looks for four specific substances: AFP , hCG , uE3, and Inhibin-A
What is AFP?
It is a protein made in the liver of a developing baby
What is purpose of AFP test?
The results of your AFP blood test can alert your doctor to possible birth defects. A high level of AFP can be an indication of a neural tube defect such as spina bifida.
What is uE3?
Oestriol (uE3) , a form of oestrogen that increases during pregnancy. It is produced in large amounts by the placenta.