fetal period and abnormalities

Question 1

Oligohydramnios

Answer 1

amniotic fluid level = too low
Often caused by poor renal function in fetus. Can result in Club Foot or Clubbing of hands, or in hypoplastic lungs (lungs that are too small to function after birth).

Question 2

Polyhydramnios

Answer 2

too much amniotic fluid

can result from esophageal atresia (fetus can’t ‘drink’ amniotic fluid away), overproduction of fluid, or any of a wide range of conditions. Can be associated with cord prolapse and placental abruption.

Question 3

congenital diaphragmatic herniation

Answer 3

if the left (in most cases) pleuroperitoneal membrane fails to complete its attachments.
As a result, the structures in the left upper abdomen will herniate into the left pleural cavity or posterior mediastinum.
can get a left hypoplastic (underdeveloped) lung
can be from intestines, spleen, or stomach herniating into the pleural cavity

Question 4

previable vs viable

Answer 4

Previable is fetus which has not had sufficient lung development to survive outside of womb.
Viable in a fetus which has developed enough lung to survive.
Thriving: gaining weight and doing OK,
Can survive and not thrive, potentially leading to death .
Previable: usually 500 g : maturity assessed by amniocentisis test for surfactant

Question 5

Quickening

Answer 5

First fetal movements.
Usually felt about 17-20 weeks
Movement of limbs necessary
muscular development
nervous system development

Question 6

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

Answer 6

More recent; risk now comperable with amniocentisis.
Collect chorionic villus cells for Karyotyping
Done 10-12 wks.
Risk of miscarrage is ~ 0.5-1.0 %
test for metabolic problems
CVS doesn’t have fluid, only cells
these cells have the same genes as the embryo