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Mappa I, Marra MC, Pietrolucci ME, Lu JLA, D'Antonio F, Rizzo G. Midline structures and cortical development in late-onset fetal growth restriction according to Doppler status: prospective study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:228-235. [PMID: 38279964 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fetuses with late-onset growth restriction (FGR) have a higher risk of suboptimal neurocognitive performance after birth. Previous studies have reported that impaired brain and cortical development can start in utero. The primary aim of this study was to report midline structure growth and cortical development in fetuses with late-onset FGR according to its severity; the secondary aim was to elucidate whether the severity of FGR, as defined by the presence of abnormal Doppler findings, plays a role in affecting brain growth and maturation. METHODS This was a prospective observational study that included fetuses with late-onset FGR (defined according to the Delphi FGR criteria) undergoing neurosonography between 32 and 34 weeks' gestation. Midline structure (corpus callosum (CC) and cerebellar vermis (CV)) length and cortical development, including the depth of the Sylvian (SF), parieto-occipital (POF) and calcarine (CF) fissures, were compared between late-onset FGR, small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) fetuses. Subgroup analysis according to the severity of FGR (normal vs abnormal fetal Doppler) was also performed. Univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS A total of 52 late-onset FGR fetuses with normal Doppler findings, 60 late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings, 64 SGA fetuses and 100 AGA fetuses were included in the analysis. When comparing AGA controls with SGA fetuses, late-onset FGR fetuses with normal Doppler findings and late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings, there was a progressive and significant reduction in the absolute values of the following parameters: CC length (median (interquartile range (IQR)), 43.5 (28.9-56.1) mm vs 41.9 (27.8-51.8) mm vs 38.5 (29.1-50.5) mm vs 31.7 (23.8-40.2) mm; K = 26.68; P < 0.0001), SF depth (median (IQR), 14.5 (10.7-16.8) mm vs 12.7 (9.8-15.1) mm vs 11.9 (9.1-13.4) mm vs 8.3 (6.7-10.3) mm; K = 75.82; P < 0.0001), POF depth (median (IQR), 8.6 (6.3-11.1) mm vs 8.1 (5.6-10.4) mm vs 7.8 (6.1-9.3) mm vs 6.6 (4.2-8.0) mm; K = 45.06; P < 0.0001) and CF depth (median (IQR), 9.3 (6.7-11.5) mm vs 8.2 (5.7-10.7) mm vs 7.7 (5.2-9.4) mm vs 6.3 (4.5-7.2) mm; K = 46.14; P < 0.0001). Absolute CV length was significantly higher in AGA fetuses compared with all other groups, although the same progressive pattern was not noted (median (IQR), 24.9 (17.6-29.2) mm vs 21.6 (15.2-26.1) mm vs 19.1 (13.8-25.9) mm vs 21.0 (13.5-25.8) mm; K = 16.72; P = 0.0008). When the neurosonographic variables were corrected for fetal head circumference, a significant difference in the CC length and SF, POF and CF depths, but not CV length, was observed only in late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler findings when compared with AGA and SGA fetuses. CONCLUSIONS Fetuses with late-onset FGR had shorter CC length and delayed cortical development when compared with AGA fetuses. After controlling for fetal head circumference, these differences remained significant only in late-onset FGR fetuses with abnormal Doppler. These findings support the existence of a link between brain development and impaired placental function. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M C Marra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M E Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - J L A Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - F D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - G Rizzo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
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Mappa I, Marra MC, Pietrolucci ME, Angela Lu JL, D'Antonio F, Rizzo G. Effects of umbilical vein flow on midbrain growth and cortical development in late onset fetal growth restricted fetuses: a prospective cross-sectional study. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:423-428. [PMID: 38296222 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate midbrain growth, including corpus callusum (CC) and cerebellar vermis (CV) and cortical development in late fetal growth restricted (FGR) subclassified according to the umbilical vein blood flow (UVBF) values. METHODS This was a prospective study on singleton fetuses late FGR with abnormal placental cerebral ratio (PCR). FGR fetuses were further subdivided into normal (≥fifth centile) and abnormal ( RESULTS The study cohort included 60 late FGR, 31 with normal UVBF/AC and 29 with abnormal UVBF/AC values. The latter group showed significant differences in CC (median (interquartile range (IQR) normal 0.96 (0.73-1.16) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.60 (0.47-0.87); p<0.0001)), CV (normal 1.04 (0.75-1.26) vs. abnormal UVBF (AC 0.76 (0.62-1.18)); p=0.0319), SF (normal 0.83 (0.74-0.93) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.56 (0.46-0.68); p<0.0001), POF (normal 0.80 (0.71-0.90) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC l 0.49 (0.39-0.90); p≤0.0072) and CF (normal 0.83 (0.56-1.01) vs. abnormal UVBF/AC 0.72 (0.53-0.80); p<0.029). CONCLUSIONS Late onset FGR fetuses with of reduced umbilical vein flow showed shorter CC and CV length and a delayed cortical development when compared to those with normal umbilical vein hemodynamics. These findings support the existence of a link between abnormal brain development and changes in umbilical vein circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Marra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Jia Li Angela Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università di Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università di Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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Marra MC, Mappa I, Pietrolucci ME, Lu JLA, D' Antonio F, Rizzo G. Fetal brain development in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:310-316. [PMID: 38231478 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) carries an increased risk of neurocognitive impairment in offsprings. However, the contribution of maternal hyperglycemia in affecting fetal brain development is not fully elucidated yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate fetal brain and sulci development in pregnancies complicated by GDM. METHODS Prospective observational study including 100 singleton pregnancies complicated by GDM and 100 matched controls. All fetuses underwent neurosonography at 29-34 weeks of gestation, including the assessment of the length of the corpus callosum (CC), cerebellar vermis (CV), Sylvian (SF), parieto-occipital (POF) and calcarine fissures (CF). Sub-group analysis according to the specific treatment regimen adopted (n 67 diet vs. 33 insulin therapy) was also performed. RESULTS Fetuses from mothers with GDM under insulin therapy had a smaller CC (35.54 mm) compared to both controls (40 mm; p<0.001) and women with GDM under diet (39.26 mm; p=0.022) while there was no difference in the HC between the groups. Likewise, when corrected for HC, CV depth was smaller in fetuses with GDM both under insulin therapy (7.03 mm) and diet (7.05 mm,) compared to controls (7.36 mm; p=0.013). Finally, when assessing the sulci development of the brain SF (p≤0.0001), POF (p≤0.0001) and CF (p≤0.0001) were significantly smaller in fetuses with maternal GDM. Post-hoc analysis showed that fetuses of GDM mothers requiring insulin therapy had significantly lower values of SF (p=0.032), POF (p=0.016) and CF (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS Pregnancies complicated by GDM showed a peculiar pattern of fetal brain growth and cortical development and these changes, which are more evident in those requiring insulin supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Marra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Jia Li Angela Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
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Manzo L, Orlandi G, Gabrielli O, Toscano P, Di Lella E, Lettieri A, Mazzarelli LL, Sica G, Di Meglio L, Di Meglio L, Ruffo G, Sica C, Gulino FA, Incognito GG, Tuscano A, Giorno A, Di Meglio A. Fetal Cerebellar Area: Ultrasound Reference Ranges at 13-39 Weeks of Gestation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4080. [PMID: 37373772 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12124080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The present study aims to provide prenatal 2-dimensional ultrasonographic (2D-US) nomograms of the normal cerebellar area. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a prospective cross-sectional analysis of 252 normal singleton pregnancies, ranging from 13 to 39 weeks of gestation. The operator performed measurements of the fetal cerebellar area in the transverse plane using 2D-US. The relationship between cerebellar area and gestational age (GA) was determined through regression equations. RESULTS A significant, strong positive correlation was investigated between the cerebellar area with GA (r-value = 0.89), and a positive correlation indicates that with increasing GA, the cerebellar area increased in all the participants of the study. Several 2D-US nomograms of the normal cerebellar area were provided, and an increase of 0.4% in the cerebellar area each week of GA was reported. CONCLUSIONS We presented information on the typical dimensions of the fetal cerebellar area throughout gestation. In future studies, it could be evaluated how the cerebellar area changes with cerebellar abnormalities. It should be established if calculating the cerebellar area in addition to the routine transverse cerebellar diameter may help in discriminating posterior fossa anomalies or even help to identify anomalies that would otherwise remain undetected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Manzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Orlandi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Olimpia Gabrielli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Toscano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Enrica Di Lella
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonia Lettieri
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Letizia Mazzarelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Giordana Sica
- School of Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Caserta, Italy
| | - Letizia Di Meglio
- Radiology Department, School of Medicine, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Lavinia Di Meglio
- Pediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Research Hospital IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ruffo
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Sica
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS) Garibaldi Nesima, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Giosuè Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Attilio Tuscano
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Alice Giorno
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Aniello Di Meglio
- Diagnostica Ecografica e Prenatale di A. Di Meglio, 80133 Naples, Italy
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Mappa I, Pietrolucci ME, Pavjola M, Maruotti G, D'Antonio F, Rizzo G. Fetal brain biometry and cortical development after maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy: A prospective case-control study. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:639-643. [PMID: 36305509 PMCID: PMC9874750 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess cerebral growth and the development of fetal cortex using neurosonography in fetuses from pregnancies experiencing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) according to infection timing. METHODS Pregnancies with by SARS-CoV-2 during first and second trimesters were prospectively studied and matched with unaffected controls. Enclosed women underwent neurosonography at 30-34 weeks of gestation and corpus callosum (CC) and cerebellar vermis (CV) lengths measured. Further Sylvian fissure (SF), insula. Parieto-occipital fissure (POF), and calcarine sulci fissures (CSF) depths were obtained. The ultrasonographic variables considered were normalized with fetal head size. RESULTS One hundred and seventy four consecutive pregnancies experiencing SARS COV 2 infection (81 before 14 weeks and 93 later) and 131 not affected pregnancies were considered. General and pregnancy characteristics were similar between the three groups of women. No significant differences existed in CC and CV lengths across groups. Similarly, insula, SF, POF And CSF depth did not result changed in fetuses of affected mothers. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 infection does nor resulted associate with differential fetal cortical development or brain growth in mildly symptomatic pregnant women. This information may be useful to reassure infected mothers on the health of their fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor VergataUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor VergataUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
| | - Maqina Pavjola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor VergataUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
| | - Giuseppe Maruotti
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Federico IINaplesItaly
| | | | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor VergataUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
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Rosenbloom JI, Yaeger LH, Porat S. Reference Ranges for Vermis Biometry on Prenatal Ultrasound: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:e25-e38. [PMID: 33836547 DOI: 10.1055/a-1408-1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of published nomograms for fetal vermis biometry. MATERIALS AND METHODS A structured literature search was conducted to identify studies that reported normal measurements of the fetal vermis. A customized quality assessment tool was used to review the selected articles. Random effects meta-analysis was used to calculate normal ranges for vermian craniocaudal diameter, anteroposterior diameter, and surface area. RESULTS A total of 21 studies were included for qualitative review and 3 studies were included for quantitative synthesis. The 3 included articles comprised a total of 10 910 measurements from gestational ages 17-35 weeks. The quality assessment demonstrated that there was generally poor reporting regarding maternal characteristics and neonatal outcomes. Except for one article with a large sample size, the mean number of fetuses per week of gestational age was 15.9, with the lowest number being 5. There was significant statistical heterogeneity. Non-visualization rates ranged from 0-35.4 %. The craniocaudal diameter (reported in 3 articles) increased from a mean of 7.90 mm (95 % confidence interval [CI] 7.42, 8.38) at 17 weeks to 21.90 mm (95 % CI 20.63, 23.16) at 35 weeks gestation. The anteroposterior diameter (reported in 2 articles) increased from 6.30 mm (95 % CI 5.42, 7.18) at 17 weeks to 15.85 (95 %CI 15.49, 16.21) at 32 weeks. CONCLUSION Reference ranges for vermis biometry across gestation based on meta-analysis of existing references are provided. However, because many of the underlying studies suffered from significant methodological issues, the ranges should be used with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua I Rosenbloom
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem, Israel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, Saint Louis, United States
| | - Lauren H Yaeger
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, Saint Louis, United States
| | - Shay Porat
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem, Israel
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Rizzo G, Pietrolucci ME, De Vito M, Pavjola M, Capponi A, Mappa I. Fetal brain biometry and cortical development in congenital heart disease: A prospective cross sectional study. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:84-90. [PMID: 36069371 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate brain biometry and cortical development by neurosonography in fetuses with congenital heart defect (CHD) and evaluate differences among different type of CHD. METHODS In a prospective cross sectional study singleton fetus with CHD were matched with controls and grouped into two categories according to the predicted severity of cerebral arterial oxygen deficit induced by the CHD: Group A mildly reduced or normal and Group B moderately to severely reduced. Neurosonography was done at 30-33 weeks to obtain measurements of corpus callosum (CC), cerebellar vermis (CV), Sylvian fissure (SF) insula, parieto-occipital fissure (POF), and calcarine sulci fissures (CSF). All the neurosonographic parameters were adjusted by head circumference (HC). RESULTS A total of 78 fetuses with CHD (group A 30; group B 48) and 80 matched controls form uncomplicated pregnancies were considered. CHD fetuses have significantly smaller CC, CV, SF, and POF and bigger insula when compared to control fetuses. These differences are more marked in group B fetuses. These differences remained significant after correction for HC values. CONCLUSION Fetuses with CHD have an impaired cortical development and these variations are more evident in those with a predicted lower oxygen delivery to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Marika De Vito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maqina Pavjola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Capponi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale San Giovanni Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Caspi Y, de Zwarte SMC, Iemenschot IJ, Lumbreras R, de Heus R, Bekker MN, Hulshoff Pol H. Automatic measurements of fetal intracranial volume from 3D ultrasound scans. FRONTIERS IN NEUROIMAGING 2022; 1:996702. [PMID: 37555155 PMCID: PMC10406279 DOI: 10.3389/fnimg.2022.996702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional fetal ultrasound is commonly used to study the volumetric development of brain structures. To date, only a limited number of automatic procedures for delineating the intracranial volume exist. Hence, intracranial volume measurements from three-dimensional ultrasound images are predominantly performed manually. Here, we present and validate an automated tool to extract the intracranial volume from three-dimensional fetal ultrasound scans. The procedure is based on the registration of a brain model to a subject brain. The intracranial volume of the subject is measured by applying the inverse of the final transformation to an intracranial mask of the brain model. The automatic measurements showed a high correlation with manual delineation of the same subjects at two gestational ages, namely, around 20 and 30 weeks (linear fitting R2(20 weeks) = 0.88, R2(30 weeks) = 0.77; Intraclass Correlation Coefficients: 20 weeks=0.94, 30 weeks = 0.84). Overall, the automatic intracranial volumes were larger than the manually delineated ones (84 ± 16 vs. 76 ± 15 cm3; and 274 ± 35 vs. 237 ± 28 cm3), probably due to differences in cerebellum delineation. Notably, the automated measurements reproduced both the non-linear pattern of fetal brain growth and the increased inter-subject variability for older fetuses. By contrast, there was some disagreement between the manual and automatic delineation concerning the size of sexual dimorphism differences. The method presented here provides a relatively efficient way to delineate volumes of fetal brain structures like the intracranial volume automatically. It can be used as a research tool to investigate these structures in large cohorts, which will ultimately aid in understanding fetal structural human brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Caspi
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sonja M. C. de Zwarte
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Iris J. Iemenschot
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Raquel Lumbreras
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Roel de Heus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Antonius Hospital, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Mireille N. Bekker
- Department of Obstetrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Hilleke Hulshoff Pol
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Di Mascio D, Buca D, Rizzo G, Khalil A, Timor-Tritsch IE, Odibo A, Mappa I, Flacco ME, Giancotti A, Liberati M, D'Antonio F. Methodological quality of fetal brain structure charts for screening examination and targeted neurosonography: a systematic review. Fetal Diagn Ther 2022; 49:145-158. [DOI: 10.1159/000521421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The methodological quality of fetal brain charts has not been critically appraised yet.
Material and methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Web of Science databases were searched electronically up to December 31, 2020. The primary outcome was to evaluate the methodology of the studies assessing the growth of fetal brain structures throughout gestation. A list of 28 methodological quality criteria divided into three domains according to “study design”, “statistical and reporting methods”, and “specific relevant neurosonography aspects” was developed in order to assess the methodological appropriateness of the included studies. The overall quality score was defined as the sum of low risk of bias marks, with the range of possible scores being 0–28. This quality assessment was applied to each individual study reporting reference ranges for fetal brain structures.
Results: Sixty studies were included in the systematic review. The overall mean quality score of the studies included in this review was 51.3%. When focusing on each of the assessed domains, the mean quality score was 53.7% for “study design”, 54.2% for “statistical and reporting methods” and 38.6% for “specific relevant neurosonography aspects”. The sample size calculation, the correlation with a postnatal imaging evaluation and the whole fetal brain assessment were the items at the highest risk of bias for each domain assessed, respectively. The subgroup analysis according to different anatomical location showed the lowest quality score for ventricular and periventricular structures and the highest for cortical structures.
Conclusions: Most previously published studies reporting fetal brain charts suffers from poor methodology and are at high risk of biases, mostly when focusing on neurosonography issues. Further prospective longitudinal studies aiming at constructing specific growth charts for fetal brain structures should follow rigorous methodology to minimize the risk of biases, guarantee higher levels of reproducibility and improve the standard of care.
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10
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Whittle S, Finn M, Little K, Olsson CA. A methodological review of fetal neurosonographic studies: New directions in assessment of neurodevelopmental risk for mental health problems. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 114:172-193. [PMID: 32275918 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Most mental disorders are now considered to have neurodevelopmental origins, with a growing body of research pointing to neural alterations that predate birth. However, lack of established methods for reliable investigation of fetal brain development has limited research into early neural vulnerability. Using a systematic approach and quantitative evaluation of study methodology, we review neurosonographic studies of fetal brain structure with objective quality measures. A total of 81 studies were identified. High quality studies were identified for measurement of the corpus callosum, cerebellum, vermis, ventricles and frontal cortex, with reference ranges provided to facilitate future clinical research. Fewer and lower quality studies were available for subcortical structures, prompting a need for further research to create reliable reference ranges. Development and adoption of reference ranges for fetal brain structures should facilitate future research in neurosonographic evaluation of fetal brain development and lead to a better understanding of neurodevelopmental risk and resilience processes for mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Whittle
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Australia; The University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Australia.
| | | | - Keriann Little
- Deakin University Geelong, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Australia; Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Department of Neurodevelopment & Disability, Australia; Barwon Child Youth & Family, Policy & Planning, Australia
| | - Craig A Olsson
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Australia; Deakin University Geelong, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Australia; The University of Melbourne, Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hosptial, Australia
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11
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Sun L, Guo C, Yao L, Zhang T, Wang J, Wang L, Liu Y, Wang K, Wang L, Wu Q. Quantitative diagnostic advantages of three-dimensional ultrasound volume imaging for fetal posterior fossa anomalies: Preliminary establishment of a prediction model. Prenat Diagn 2019; 39:1086-1095. [PMID: 31441071 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To quantitatively assess prenatal diagnostic performance of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) for posterior fossa anomalies (PFA) and establish a preliminarily 3D-US prediction model. METHODS Sixty singleton fetuses suspected of PFA by 2D-US presented their detailed 3D-US evaluation. The surface area of vermis (SAV), brainstem-vermis, and brainstem-tentorium angles were measured by 3D-US. The good prognosis was defined as normal neurodevelopmental outcome. MRI and autopsy were the diagnostic reference standard. RESULTS There was a significant difference between 2D-US (60.0%, 36/60) and 3D-US (94.8%, 55/58) for the diagnostic accuracy (P < .01). Prenatal 3D-US prediction model was established with observed/expected SAV as the main predictor (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.901; 95% CI, 0.810-0.992, P < .001). When it was more than 107.5%, the prognosis seemed to be good (sensitivity: 96.4%, specificity: 26.7%), which led to consideration of mega cisterna magna, Blake pouch cyst, or small arachnoid cyst. The prognosis appeared to be poor when it was less than 73% (sensitivity: 71.4%, specificity: 100%), and the diagnosis tended to be a Dandy-Walker malformation, vermian hypoplasia, and cerebellar hypoplasia. Brainstem-vermis and brainstem-tentorium angles were the secondary indicators (AUC: 0.689 vs 0.761; 95% CI, 0.541-0.836 vs 0.624-0.897, P = .014 vs.001). CONCLUSIONS It seems that the exact types of PFA can be effectively diagnosed by quantitative indicators of 3D-US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Sun
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cuixia Guo
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Yao
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tiejuan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Keyang Wang
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Longxia Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, the General Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Qingqing Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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12
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Spinelli M, Di Meglio L, Mosimann B, Di Naro E, Surbek D, Raio L. The Vermian-Crest Angle: A New Method to Assess Fetal Vermis Position within the Posterior Fossa Using 3-Dimensional Multiplanar Sonography. Fetal Diagn Ther 2018; 46:223-230. [PMID: 30517923 DOI: 10.1159/000494721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Normal morphometry of the vermis and its relation to the posterior fossa (PF) rule out most major anomalies of the cerebellum. However, accurate categorization of the position and size of the fetal vermis remains a challenge. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to test a new method to assess the position and size of fetal vermis on 3-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US). METHODS We measured the vermian-crest angle (VCA) in normal fetuses using multiplanar 3D-US. We also assessed the diameters (superoinferior, anteroposterior, and horizontal) and volume of the vermis. The Spearman rank test and linear and polynomial regression analyses were used for statistical purposes. RESULTS We included 126 fetuses. Mean ± SD gestational age (GA) was 26.3 ± 4.6 (range 17-35.5) weeks. Mean ± SD superoinferior, anteroposterior, and horizontal diameters were 16.2 ± 4.9, 11.2 ± 3.6, and 5.6 ± 1.6 mm, respectively. Median (range) vermian volume was 0.50 (0.05-2.9) cm3. The VCA was 64.49° ± 11.45. We found no correlation between GA and VCA (r = 0.15; p = 0.13), a linear correlation between GA and vermian diameters, and a quadratic correlation between GA and vermian volume. CONCLUSIONS We provide a new method to assess vermian position and size within the PF using 3D-US. The combined information may be of value for screening purposes, particularly to differentiate between the various pathological situations encountered within the PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marialuigia Spinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy, .,Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland,
| | - Lavinia Di Meglio
- Private Centre "Diagnostica Ecografica Prenatale Aniello Di Meglio srl", Naples, Italy
| | - Beatrice Mosimann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Di Naro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Daniel Surbek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Raio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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13
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Xie JX, You JH, Chen XK, Su YM, Liu JR, Su SS, Hou M, Lv GR. Three-dimensional sonographic minute structure analysis of fetal cerebellar vermis development and malformations: utilizing volume contrast imaging. J Med Ultrason (2001) 2018; 46:113-122. [PMID: 30291575 DOI: 10.1007/s10396-018-0906-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To obtain three-dimensional ultrasonic (3D US) structural details and biometrics of the fetal cerebellar vermis and evaluate the value of developmental and malformation identification. METHODS The 3D US minute structure of the fetal cerebellar vermis in mid-sagittal view was detected in normal fetuses (n = 438; 16-41 weeks). Biometric sizes were measured to establish the stage-specific norms and reproducibility analysis. Additionally, 28 fetuses with suspected abnormal posterior fossa contents were assessed to analyze the clinical value. RESULTS The minute structure of normal fetuses, including cerebellar vermis contours and the fastigial recess of the fourth ventricle, were visible around Week 19. The main lobules and fissures were apparent around Week 22, and all nine lobules, fissures, and the fourth ventricle were clearly displayed by Week 28. Cerebellar vermis biometric sizes (anterior-posterior length, cranio-caudal length, circumference, and surface area (SA)) grew in a linear fashion with high reliability, especially SA measurements (for intraclass, ICC 0.989, 95% CI (0.980-0.994); for interclass, ICC 0.992, 95% CI (0.984-0.996)). On the middle sagittal section of 3D US, the SA reduced at least 50% in the Dandy-Walker group with no recognizable cerebellar vermis structures showing. The SA in vermian hypoplasia malformation reduced during [Formula: see text] to 50% with the primary/secondary fissures absent or partly absent and arborization of the lobules reduced. That would be an important diagnosis and antidiastole clue. Combined with minute structural observation, sonographic diagnoses were accurate in 88% of cases. CONCLUSION Minute structures obtained by 3D US were clinically useful in the evaluation of cerebellar vermis development and cerebellar vermis malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Xian Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiamen Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Xiamen, 361000, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Hong You
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Kang Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Children's Hospital of Fudan University Xiamen Branch, Xiamen Children's Hospital, Xiamen, 361000, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ming Su
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Rong Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangzhou Women and Children Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan-Shan Su
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Hou
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Rong Lv
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- , Quanzhou, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Albers MEWA, Buisman ETIA, Kahn RS, Franx A, Onland-Moret NC, de Heus R. Intra- and interobserver agreement for fetal cerebral measurements in 3D-ultrasonography. Hum Brain Mapp 2018; 39:3277-3284. [PMID: 29637664 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.24076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate intra- and interobserver agreement for measurement of intracranial, cerebellar, and thalamic volume with the Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLysis (VOCAL) technique in three-dimensional ultrasound images, in comparison to two-dimensional measurements of these brain structures. Three-dimensional ultrasound images of the brains of 80 fetuses at 20-24 weeks' gestational age were obtained from YOUth, a Dutch prospective cohort study. Two observers performed offline measurement of the occipitofrontal diameter, intracranial volume, transcerebellar diameter, cerebellar volume, and thalamic width, area, and volume, independently. VOCAL was used for calculation of the volumes. The two-way random, single measures intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for analysis of agreement and Bland-Altman plots were configured. Intra- and interobserver agreement was almost perfect for occipitofrontal diameter (intra ICC 0.88, 95% CI 0.82-0.92; inter ICC 0.91, 95% CI 0.85-0.94), intracranial volume (intra ICC 0.96, 95% CI 0.91-0.98; inter ICC 0.97, 95% CI 0.96-0.98) and transcerebellar diameter (intra ICC 0.91, 95% CI 0.86-0.94; inter ICC 0.86, 95% CI 0.78-0.910). For cerebellar volume, the intraobserver agreement was almost perfect (0.85, 95% CI 0.76-0.90), whereas the interobserver agreement was substantial (0.75, 95% CI 0.44-0.88). Agreement was only moderate for thalamic measurements. Bland-Altman plots for the volume measurements are normally distributed with acceptable mean differences and 95% limits of agreement. The intra- and interobserver agreement of the measurement of intracranial and cerebellar volume with VOCAL was almost perfect. These measurements are therefore reliable, and can be used to investigate fetal brain development. Thalamic measurements are not reliable enough.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E W A Albers
- Division of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.,Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Erato T I A Buisman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, 's Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - René S Kahn
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Arie Franx
- Division of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - N Charlotte Onland-Moret
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Roel de Heus
- Division of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
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15
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Benavente-Fernández I, Rodríguez-Zafra E, León-Martínez J, Jiménez-Gómez G, Ruiz-González E, Fernández-Colina RC, Lechuga-Sancho AM, Lubián-López SP. Normal Cerebellar Growth by Using Three-dimensional US in the Preterm Infant from Birth to Term-corrected Age. Radiology 2018; 288:254-261. [PMID: 29613844 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2018171956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To establish cross-sectional and longitudinal reference values for cerebellar size in preterm infants with normal neuroimaging findings and normal 2-year neurodevelopmental outcome by using cranial ultrasonography (US). Materials and Methods This prospective study consecutively enrolled preterm infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit from June 2011 to June 2014 with a birth weight of less than or equal to 1500 g and/or gestational age (GA) of less than or equal to 32 weeks. They underwent weekly cranial US from birth to term-equivalent age and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging at term-equivalent age. The infants underwent neurodevelopmental assessments at age 2 years with Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd edition (BSID-III). Patients with adverse outcomes (death or abnormal neuroimaging findings and/or BSID-III score of <85) were excluded. The following measurements were performed: vermis height, craniocaudal diameter, superior width, inferior width, vermis area, and transcerebellar diameter. Statistical analyses were conducted by using multilevel analyses. Results A total of 137 infants with a mean GA at birth of 29.4 weeks (range, 25-32 weeks) were included. Transcerebellar diameter increased by 1.04 mm per week on average; vermis height and craniocaudal diameter increased by 0.55 mm and 0.59 mm, respectively. Superior vermian width increased by an average of 0.45 mm, whereas inferior vermian width increased by an average of 0.51 mm per week. Vermis area was found to increase by 0.22 cm2 per week on average. The sex effect was significant (female lower than male) for vermis height (P < .05), craniocaudal diameter (P < .05), inferior vermian width (P <. 05), and vermis area (P <. 05). Conclusion Cross-sectional and longitudinal reference values were established for cerebellar growth in preterm infants, which may be included in routine cranial US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Benavente-Fernández
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Enrique Rodríguez-Zafra
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Jesús León-Martínez
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Gema Jiménez-Gómez
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Estefanía Ruiz-González
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Rosalía Campuzano Fernández-Colina
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Alfonso M Lechuga-Sancho
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
| | - Simón P Lubián-López
- From the Neonatology Unit (I.B.F., E.R.G., S.P.L.L.) and Research Unit (G.J.G., A.M.L.S.), University Hospital Puerta del Mar, Avda. Ana de Viya 21, Cádiz 11009, Spain; Nene Foundation (Neonatal Neurology Research Group), Madrid, Spain (I.B.F., S.P.L.L.); Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain (E.R.Z., J.L.M.); and Early Intervention, Health and Social Policies, Regional Government of Andalusia, Seville, Spain (R.C.F.C.)
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16
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Zhao D, Cai A, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wang B. Measurement of normal fetal cerebellar vermis at 24-32 weeks of gestation by transabdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging: A prospective comparative study. Eur J Radiol 2018; 100:30-35. [PMID: 29496076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fetal cerebellar vermis may be assessed by ultrasound (US) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and median-plane views are best for evaluation. The purpose of this study was to compare measurements of normal fetal vermis at 24-32 weeks of gestation obtained in median plane by transabdominal 2D-US, 3D-US, and MRI. METHODS A prospective study was conducted, examining normal singleton fetuses between 24 and 32 weeks of gestation. Within a 24-h period, median-plane views of posterior fossa were generated using 2D-US, 3D-US, and MRI. Measurements of anteroposterior (AP) diameter, craniocaudal (CC) diameter, mid-sagittal surface area, brainstem-vermis (BV) angle and brainstem-tentorium (BT) angle were obtained to compare these imaging modalities. RESULTS A total of 180 fetuses were studied. Correlation among imaging methods was good, marked by the following intraclass correlation coefficients: AP diameter, 0.955; CC diameter, 0.956; mid-sagittal surface area, 0.982; BV angle, 0.810; and BT angle, 0.865 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Visualization rates of MRI, 3D-US, and transabdominal 2D-US were decremental, MRI being superior in this regard. However, these three imaging modalities correlated well in measuring cerebellar vermis and its surroundings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Ailu Cai
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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17
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Spinelli M, Sica C, Meglio LD, Bolla D, Raio L, Surbek D. Fetal Cerebellar Vermis Circumference Measured by 2-Dimensional Ultrasound Scan: Reference Range, Feasibility and Reproducibility. Ultrasound Int Open 2016; 2:E124-E128. [PMID: 27921094 PMCID: PMC5134824 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-119952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To provide 2-dimensional ultrasonographic (2D-US) normograms of cerebellar vermis biometry, as well as to evaluate the feasibility and the reproducibility of these measurements in clinical practice. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study of 328 normal singleton pregnancies between 18 and 33 weeks of gestation. Measurements of the fetal cerebellar vermis circumference (VC) in the mid-sagittal plane were performed by both a senior and a junior operator using 2D-US. VC as a function of gestational age (GA) was expressed by regression equations. In 24 fetuses 3-dimensional (3D) reconstructed planes were obtained in order to allow comparisons with 2D-US measurements. The agreement between 2D and 3D measurements and the interobserver variability were assessed by interclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Results: Satisfactory vermis measurements could be obtained in 89.9% of cases. The VC (constant= - 12.21; slope=2.447; r=0.887, p<0.0001) correlated linearly with GA. A high degree of consistency was observed between 2D and 3D ultrasound measurements (ICC=0.846 95% CI 679-0.930) as well as between measurements obtained by different examiners (ICC=0.890 95% CI 989-0.945). Conclusion: 2-dimensional ultrasonographic measurements of cerebellar vermis throughout gestation in the mid-sagittal view seem to be feasible and reproducible enough to be potentially used in clinical practice. Such measurements may supply a tool for accurate identification of posterior fossa anomalies, providing the basis for proper counseling and management and of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Spinelli
- Department of Clinical Research, Prenatal Medicine, Inselspital Bern
Universitatsklinik fur Frauenheilkunde, Bern, Switzerland
| | - C. Sica
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Centre "Diagnostica ecografica e
prenatale Aniello Di Meglio s.r.l.", Naples, Italy
| | - L. D. Meglio
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Centre "Diagnostica ecografica e
prenatale Aniello Di Meglio s.r.l.", Naples, Italy
| | - D. Bolla
- OB/GYN, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - L. Raio
- OB/GYN, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - D. Surbek
- OB & GYN, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
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Xi Y, Brown E, Bailey A, Twickler DM. MR imaging of the fetal cerebellar vermis: Biometric predictors of adverse neurologic outcome. J Magn Reson Imaging 2016; 44:1284-1292. [DOI: 10.1002/jmri.25270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Xi
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Dallas Texas USA
| | - Emily Brown
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Dallas Texas USA
| | - April Bailey
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Dallas Texas USA
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Gezer C, Ekin A, Sinem Gezer N, Solmaz U, Ozeren M. Quantitative Evaluation of the Fetal Cerebellar Vermis Using the Median View on Two-Dimensional Ultrasound. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY 2016; 13:e34870. [PMID: 27703661 PMCID: PMC5037970 DOI: 10.5812/iranjradiol.34870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Evaluation of the cerebellum and vermis is one of the integral parts of the fetal cranial anomaly screening. Objectives The aim of this study was to create a nomogram for fetal vermis measurements between 17 and 30 gestational weeks. Patients and Methods This prospective study was conducted on 171 volunteer pregnant women between March 2013 and December 2014. Measurements of the fetal cerebellar vermis diameters in the sagittal plane were performed by two-dimensional transabdominal ultrasonography. Results Optimal median planes were obtained in 117 of the cases. Vermian diameters as a function of gestational age were expressed by regression equations and the correlation coefficients were found to be highly statistically significant (P < 0.001). The normal mean (± standard deviation) for each gestational week was also defined. Conclusion This study presents the normal range of the two-dimensional fetal vermian measurements between 17 and 30 gestational weeks. In the absence of a three-dimensional ultrasonography, two-dimensional ultrasonography could also be used confidently with more time and effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cenk Gezer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
- Corresponding author: Cenk Gezer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey. Tel: +90-5325239130, E-mail:
| | - Atalay Ekin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Naciye Sinem Gezer
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ulas Solmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ozeren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
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Lei T, Xie HN, Zhu YX, Zheng J, Zhang F, Feng JL. Date-Independent Parameters: an Innovative Method to Assess Fetal Cerebellar Vermis. THE CEREBELLUM 2015; 14:231-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s12311-014-0632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Rizzo G, Pietrolucci ME, Mammarella S, Dijmeli E, Bosi C, Arduini D. Authors' response to Letter from A. Toi: cerebellar vermis area versus perimeter. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 28:1845. [PMID: 25260127 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2014.969971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Toi A. Cerebellar vermis area versus perimeter. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2014; 28:1740. [PMID: 25241769 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2014.967675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ants Toi
- a Department of Medical Imaging , Mt Sinai Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital , 610 University Ave , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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