Doppler Blood Flow Velocity in the Evaluationof Fetal Anemia

Overview

Objective:
To review (summarize), in maternal red blood cell alloimmunization, the diagnosticvalue of Doppler blood fl ow velocity in the evaluation and prediction of fetal anemia.Design: A review article.Setting: Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, University Hospital, Olomouc.Subject and Method: A review from literature and bibliographic databases.Conclusion: Invasive techniques such as amniocentesis and cordocentesis traditionally are usedfor diagnosis and treatment in fetuses at risk for anemia due to maternal red-cell alloimmunization.Middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity is a highly sensitive non-invasive means for determiningthe degree of anemia. The interval of seven days between two Doppler tests is recommended.The widespread use of the Doppler method will minimize fetal complications associatedwith amniocentesis and fetal blood sampling and may signifi cantly lower health care cost.

Key words:
fetal anemia, middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity, Doppler, red cell alloimmunization,intrauterine transfusion