Prenatal determination of fetal brain and somatic weight by ultrasound

A new method of determining fetal weight in utero is presented. Because it is based on multiple ultrasound measurements which encompass population and individual variations in fetal anthropometry, the method should be applicable to fetuses drawn from different populations. The components of fetal weight are separated into two variables, brain weight and somatic weight, which are independently determined. Their sum provides good estimates of total fetal weight in normal cases as well as those with asymmetrical growth retardation (Sy = 83 gm). The method generates the data required for interpreting fetal weight estimates in terms of any alteration in the brain:somatic weight relationship. It, therefore, yields quantitative information on the severity of asymmetrical IUGR.