Normal values for fetal spleen dimensions are proposed, including longitudinal, coronal, and transverse diameters, the perimeter, and the estimated volume. Similar values were then obtained in cases of Rh‐immunization and prolonged premature rupture of the membranes. A good correlation between amniotic fluid optical density and fetal spleen size was found. Only severely affected fetuses showed splenic values above the upper limit. Since sonographic examination can be regarded as a reliable method, nomograms can be useful in detecting growth disorders of the fetal spleen and thus provide a new complementary method to identify possible fetal diseases of genetic disorders.
The in utero sonographic detection of some of the more subtle anomalies of the hand and foot is now possible with the improved resolution of the newer ultrasound equipment. Nine case reports of fetal hand and/or foot deformities are presented, with 12 total lesions. The deformities include clinodactyly, symbrachydactyly, talipomanus, talipes, and "rockerbottom" foot. The sonographic appearance of each of these is discussed.
Twenty‐three diagnostic centers worldwide contributed 127 cases of 17 skeletal dysplasias. Discriminant analysis showed that the femur length was the best biometric parameter to distinguish among the five most common disorders in this series (thanatophoric dysplasia, osteogenesis imperfecta type II, achondrogenesis, achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia). Fifty‐four percent of fetuses with femur length below 30% of the mean for gestational age had achondrogenesis. Seventy‐eight percent of measurements between 40 and 60% of the mean for gestational age represented either thanatophoric dysplasia or osteogenesis imperfecta type II. Fetuses who had over 80% of the mean for gestational age had predominantly hypochondroplasia, achondroplasia, and osteogenesis imperfecta type III.
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