Correlation of Fetal Abdominal Subcutaneous Tissue Thickness by Ultrasound to Predict Birth Weight OC09-OC11
Correspondence
Dr. Rajeshwari G. Bhat,
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University,
Manipal-576104, Karnataka, India.
Phone: 9448624379, E-mail: rajigbhat@yahoo.co.in
Introduction: Fetal growth abnormality is associated with changes in the soft tissue mass, which is decreased in growth restricted fetuses and increased in macrosomia.
Objective: To correlate fetal abdominal subcutaneous tissue thickness (FASTT) measured by ultrasound at term and birth weight and to obtain a cut-off value of FASTT to predict large and small for gestational age babies in our population.
Methods: FASTT was measured at the anterior 1/3rd of abdominal circumference by ultrasound after 36 weeks and weight of the baby measured after birth.
Results:There was positive correlation between FASTT and birth weight. FASTT of 6.25 mm was sensitive to predict large for gestational age (LGA) babies and had a high negative predictive value; FASTT measurement for prediction of small babies with birth weight < 2500 g was not sensitive.
Conclusion: FASTT can be used as an additional indicator to predict large for gestational age babies along with other known birth weight indicators.