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[The biochemical screening of Down's syndrome]
S Beolchi1, M Fadin, A Paganelli
1Divisione di Ostetricia e Ginecologia, USSL n. 75.VI, Ospedale Vittore Buzzi, Milano.
Minerva Ginecologica
|July 1, 1995
Summary
This study screened for fetal trisomies using maternal serum markers. The biochemical screening showed a 50% sensitivity and 42.86% positive predictive value for detecting chromosomal abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Prenatal diagnostics
- Biochemical screening
- Genetics
Background:
- Low maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (aFP) is associated with trisomies.
- Noninvasive screening for fetal chromosomal abnormalities is a key goal in obstetrics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a biochemical screening protocol for fetal trisomies.
- To assess the effectiveness of maternal serum marker screening in low-risk pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- Maternal serum dosages of alpha-fetoprotein (aFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (bHCG), and estriol (uE3) were measured.
- Screening was performed at 16 weeks of gestation.
- 1166 pregnant women without risk factors were included.
Main Results:
- The screening demonstrated a sensitivity of 50% for fetal trisomies.
- Positive predictive value was 42.86%.
- Negative predictive value was 99.74%.
Conclusions:
- Biochemical screening using maternal serum markers (aFP, bHCG, uE3) at 16 weeks has limitations in detecting fetal trisomies.
- Further refinement of screening protocols is needed for improved accuracy in prenatal diagnostics.