Fetal transfusion: the spectrum of clinical research in the past year
Rebecca A Uhlmann1, Morgan Taylor, Norman L Meyer
1University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
Our goal is to review recent articles that examine the current state of fetal transfusion therapy from technique to education.
Recent Findings:
Even as technology facilitates physicians' diagnosis and treatment of rare disorders requiring fetal transfusion therapy, longstanding questions remain such as the use of intravascular versus intraperitoneal transfusion sites. However, the recent progress seen with molecular techniques, disease markers, and mathematical models demonstrates that despite unanswered questions, there is much to be hopeful about in improving our understanding of fetal transfusions and their application to a variety of diseases.
Summary:
Systematic and collaborative approaches to studying low-frequency disorders treatable by fetal transfusions are necessary. Continued refinement of techniques should improve the timeliness and accuracy of diagnosis, as well as assist in determining the appropriate timing, site, and duration of treatments.
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01:14Fetal Circulation
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
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History
The history of blood transfusion dates back to the 17th century, when early attempts were made in animals. In 1818 James Blundell, a British doctor, performed the first successful human blood transfusion. Later in 1900, Karl...