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Maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels in twin pregnancies
L M Nebiolo1, W B Adams, S L Miller
1Center for Human Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine, MA.
Prenatal Diagnosis
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Establishing normal ranges for maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG) in twin pregnancies is crucial for fetal chromosome defect screening. The normal MShCG range was found to be 1.84-2.41 multiples of the singleton median between 15-19 weeks.
Area of Science:
- Maternal-fetal medicine
- Prenatal diagnostics
- Biochemical screening
Background:
- Combined screening using maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG) is vital for detecting fetal chromosome abnormalities.
- Establishing specific reference ranges for twin gestations is necessary for accurate interpretation of these screening tests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the normal range for MShCG values in twin pregnancies between 15 and 19 weeks of gestation.
- To provide data for the effective implementation of combined screening in twin pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of MShCG levels in 192 twin pregnancies.
- Comparison of MShCG values against singleton medians.
Main Results:
- The normal range for MShCG in twin gestations (15-19 weeks) was established as 1.84-2.41 multiples of the singleton median.
- 31.7% of twin pregnancies had MShCG values ≥ 2.5 multiples of the singleton median.
- 47.9% of twin pregnancies had MShCG values ≥ 2.0 multiples of the singleton median.
Conclusions:
- The study defines the normal MShCG range for twin gestations, facilitating improved prenatal screening.
- These findings support the integration of MShCG screening into routine care for twin pregnancies.