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A negative second trimester triple test and absence of specific ultrasonographic markers may decrease the need for
D J D Rosen1, I Kedar, A Amiel
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Meir Hospital, Kfar-Saba, Israel. doron_rosen@hotmail.com
Prenatal Diagnosis
|January 26, 2002
Summary
The triple test effectively screens for Down syndrome in women over 35, reducing amniocentesis by 60% without missing cases. Ultrasound markers offered minimal additional benefit in this study.
Area of Science:
- Prenatal Diagnosis
- Maternal Serum Screening
- Fetal Ultrasound
Background:
- Down syndrome screening is crucial for pregnant women over 35.
- Amniocentesis is an invasive procedure with associated risks.
- Combining screening methods may improve detection rates and reduce unnecessary procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the combined sensitivity of the second-trimester triple test and targeted ultrasound for Down syndrome detection.
- To assess the impact of these combined methods on reducing amniocentesis in women over 35.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 1006 women aged 35 and over.
- All participants underwent a triple test and targeted ultrasound prior to genetic amniocentesis.
Main Results:
- The triple test identified all Down syndrome cases (13/13) and 3/8 other chromosomal abnormalities.
- Seven Down syndrome cases also showed ultrasonographic markers.
- The triple test alone would have reduced amniocentesis by 60%.
Conclusions:
- The triple test is a highly sensitive screening tool for Down syndrome in women over 35.
- Ultrasonographic markers provided limited additional value in this population.
- This approach could significantly decrease the need for amniocentesis while maintaining high Down syndrome detection rates.