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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Yong Moma | Posted under Pregnancy
Level II Ultrasound For Diagnosing Chromosomal Disorders
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In most pregnancies what the ultrasound finds is a healthy normal fetus but for some of us that joy of that perfect baby is shattered when something unusual is seen on the ultrasound. What's noted can be from very minor such as baby being a slight bit on the small size for the gestational age to very major such as chromosomal conditions such as Down Syndrome. In these cases your doctor will recommend a level II ultrasound also referred to as a targeted ultrasound. It looks for specific markers based on the findings of the original ultrasound. Often you will meet with a genetic specialist before the scan who will explain what they are looking for. Your level 2 ultrasound will most likely be carried out by a fetal medicine specialist or someone who deals with high risk pregnancies and knows what they are looking for. These are called soft markers. The level 2 ultrasound will look for soft markers and structural markers. Structural markers are abnormalities in the bone and or organs. Level II is not only much more detailed it is much more accurate. In fact for many parents this is when the words Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13, or Down Syndrome are first heard relating to their baby. And that is a moment when ones world does a complete flip flop. When there are many more questions than answers and when shock seems to take over ones ability to communicate intelligently. But what one has to remember is even though the markers are found it does not mean that you have a diagnosis. And that's because the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine does not recognize nor endorse the term Level 2 ultrasound and thus a diagnosis by this method is not recognized. Yet the level 2 has so many medical benefits. Some of the markers that can be picked up with it include but are not limited to: 1. Trisomy 18 - Edwards Syndrome - signs include choroid plexus cysts, delayed growth, heart defects, kidney abnormalities, esophageal atresia, and polyhydramnios.2. Trisomy 13 - Patau's Syndrome - signs include small head, cleft palate, delayed growth, heart defects, omphalocele, and Dextrocardia.3. Trisomy 21 - Down Syndrome - signs include choroid plexus cysts, duodenal atresia, no nasal bone at 15 to 20 weeks, echogenic intracariac focus, and echogenic bowel. The level II ultrasound is a valuable tool for detecting chromosomal disorders and although this news can be devastating the earlier you find out the more options you have and the sooner you can begin to prepare for your very special baby. About The Author: Yong has been working for a leading ultrasound manufacturer for last 8 years. At At http://www.ultrasoundlive.com he has provide information about different types of utlrassound equipments. Visit the website to get more information about ultrasound equipment and accessories. |
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