Analysis of middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity in monochorionic twin pregnancies as a method for identifying spontaneous twin anaemia-polycythaemia sequence.

A regular Doppler control evaluation of middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity is needed in order to identify twin anaemia polycythaemia sequence in monochorionic twin pregnancies. Here, we present a clinical case of spontaneous TAPS, and we review the diagnostic criteria and management strategies for this syndrome.

New contingent sequential screening model for Down syndrome based on the combined test associated with modified genetic sonography.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the possibility of implementing a contingent sequential screening test for Down syndrome (DS) based on the combined test (CT) associated with modified genetic sonography (MGS). We evaluate sensitivity (Sen), false positive rate (FPR), and economic costs.

Method: We compiled data from the results of a prospective screening programme for DS during a 5-year study period (July 2005-December 2011).

Stepwise sequential screening for Down's syndrome (combined test associated with modified genetic sonography) in pregnant women with low risk for chromosomal disorders.

Objective: To assess the sensitivity (Sen) and false positive ratio (FPR) of stepwise sequential screening [1st step: combined test (CT), 2nd step: modified genetic sonography (major malformation and nuchal fold, MGS)] as a screening method for Down's syndrome (DS) in the general population of pregnant women.

Methods: Prospective study. During a 5-year study period (July 2005 to June 2010), 17,911 pregnant women were screened for DS using a stepwise sequential screening method (CT+MGS).

First trimester contingent test as a screening method for Down's syndrome. A prospective study in the general population.

Objectives: To evaluate the possibility of implementing a contingent test as a screening method for Down's syndrome (DS) in the first trimester of pregnancy, and assess its sensitivity (Sen) and false positive rate (FPR).

Methods: Prospective study covering a 4-year study period (July 2006-June 2010). Pregnant women were offered a combined test (CT) as the first step of a contingent test.

Role of fetal echocardiography in stepwise sequential screening for chromosomal disorders (combined test associated with modified genetic sonography).

Objectives: To evaluate the contribution made by fetal echocardiography in identifying Down's syndrome (DS) and other chromosomal disorders in a stepwise sequential screening method (first step: combined test (CT), second step: modified genetic sonography (MGS) (major malformation and nuchal fold)), for DS in the general population of pregnant women.

Methods: Prospective study. During a 5-year study period (July 2005-June 2010) 17,911 pregnant women underwent CTs with MGS (with fetal cardiac morphological evaluation performed by obstetricians in a tertiary hospital) as a screening method for DS.

Contribution of "modified genetic sonography" to the combined test as a screening method for chromosomal abnormalities.

Objectives: We propose to assess the contribution of "modified genetic sonography" (MGS) to the combined test (CT) as a method of stepwise sequential screening (1st step: CT, 2nd step: MGS) for chromosome abnormalities in the general population of pregnant women.

Methods: Prospective study. During a 4 year study period (July 2005-June 2009) 16,548 pregnancies underwent a CT combined with MGS (major malformation and nuchal fold) as a screening method for chromosome abnormalities.