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Second-trimester echogenic small bowel: an increased risk for adverse perinatal outcome
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, PA.
Prenatal Diagnosis
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Echogenic small bowel in fetuses detected during mid-pregnancy ultrasounds indicates a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Grade 2 echogenicity, similar to bone, is linked to significantly worse results.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Fetal Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Echogenic small bowel (ESB) is an ultrasound finding in fetuses.
- Its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of ESB in singleton fetuses.
- To assess the relationship between ESB grading and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 2267 singleton fetuses between 15-21 weeks' gestation.
- Classification of ESB into Grade 1 (more echogenic than liver) and Grade 2 (echogenic as bone).
- Correlation of ESB grade with pregnancy complications and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of ESB was 1.4% (32/2267 fetuses).
- Grade 2 ESB was associated with significantly poorer pregnancy outcomes compared to Grade 1 (P < 0.01).
- Complications included cytomegalovirus infection, growth restriction, intrauterine fetal demise, and chromosomal abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Second-trimester ESB is a marker for increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Higher grades of ESB (echogenicity approaching bone) correlate with greater perinatal and neonatal complications.