Maternal serum biochemical markers combined with ultrasound diagnosis at the end of the first trimester

Abstract

Objectives. Evaluating the benefits of an early screening of combined maternal markers and ultrasound of the fetuses. Methods. Prospective study (1 January and 31 December 2018) enrolled 187 patients, evaluated at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy (nuchal scan). Biochemical markers: detection of free β human chorionic gonadotropin and serum pregnancy associated plasma protein A. The first trimester ultrasound examination included the assessment of the nuchal translucency, fetal crown rump length and fetal heart. Results. 9 cases with abnormal biomarkers, increased nuchal translucency and cardiac anomalies, including abnormal 4-chamber view (6 cases) and great vessel anomalies (3 cases). 1 case considered initially negative in the first trimester was diagnosed by morphological scan with tetralogy of Fallot in the second trimester. Conclusions. A first trimester combined ultrasound protocol and maternal serum biochemical markers is important in the early prenatal care screening.