Comparison of different reference values of fetal blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery for predicting fetal anemia

Authors: Bartha, J. L.; Illanes, S.; Abdel-Fattah, S.; Hunter, A.; Denbow, M.; Soothill, P. W.

Source: Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Volume 25, Number 4, April 2005 , pp. 335-340(6)

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract:

Objectives

To compare different normal reference ranges of fetal blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery for predicting fetal anemia.

Methods

Eight reference ranges of either middle cerebral artery peak or time-averaged mean velocities were compared using the area under the receiver–operating characteristics (ROC) curve for 113 fetal blood samples from 60 women at risk of fetal red blood cell alloimmunization.

Results

The areas under the ROC curves of the different ranges were not significantly different but there were marked differences in sensitivity (range, 7.14–91.78%) and specificity (range, 31.25–96.88%) with the currently used cut-offs. Except for Mari's range, the best theoretical cut-offs, defined as those having the best sensitivity with the best specificity, differed from those in current use, especially when using time-averaged mean velocity.

Conclusions

Any of the previously reported reference ranges perform well in the non-invasive prediction of fetal anemia. However, with the exception of Mari's curve, the currently employed cut-offs for predicting fetal anemia should be changed, some of them markedly, in order to provide reliable support for clinical decisions. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Keywords: alloimmunization; fetal anemia; fetal Doppler; middle cerebral artery; Rhesus disease

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/uog.1814

Affiliations: 1: Fetal Medicine Unit, St Michael's Hospital, Bristol, UK

Publication date: 2005-04-01

More about this publication?

• As of January 2010, this journal will no longer be available on IngentaConnect, please visit Wiley InterScience to arrange continued access to this content
• Access this journal at Wiley InterScience
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Obstetrics & Gynecology ,  Radiology & Imaging
• By this author: Bartha, J. L. ;  Illanes, S. ;  Abdel-Fattah, S. ;  Hunter, A. ;  Denbow, M. ;  Soothill, P. W.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers