High-resolution microarray in the assessment of fetal anomalies detected by ultrasound.

Aims: The main aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using high-resolution microarray to assist with prenatal diagnosis of ultrasound-detected fetal abnormality and to describe the frequency of abnormal results in different categories of fetal anomalies.

Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on women diagnosed with a fetal anomaly (ies) between February 2009 and December 2011 who were offered testing by microarray analysis (Affymetrix 2.7M SNP) and fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) instead of standard karyotyping.

Feasibility of implementing magnesium sulphate for neuroprotection in a tertiary obstetric unit.

Background: It is important to establish whether research recommendations regarding magnesium sulphate for neuroprotection can be readily translated into clinical practice and achieve the dual objectives of good coverage of the target group, while minimising unnecessary or prolonged exposure to treatment.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all women admitted to a tertiary obstetric centre at 23-32 weeks gestation in the first 12 months following implementation of the guideline 'Magnesium sulphate for the prevention of cerebral palsy'. We determined the number triaged to receive magnesium sulphate, the proportion of infants who received magnesium sulphate prior to delivery and the total number of doses administered.

2009 H1N1 influenza A and pregnancy outcomes in Victoria, Australia.

Background: Pregnant women have been identified as a group at risk of increased morbidity and mortality associated with the pandemic H1N1 influenza A 2009 (H1N1/09) outbreak.

Methods: Six hospitals in the state of Victoria, Australia, contributed retrospective and prospective demographic and clinical data, reason for admission data, and maternal and fetal outcome data for women with laboratory-confirmed H1N1/09 admitted to the hospital from 20 May 2009 through 31 July 2009.

Results: Forty-three cases were reported during the study period, including 8 intensive care unit admissions, 1 maternal death, 2 fetal deaths, and 1 neonatal death.