Discordance in nuchal translucency measurements in monochorionic diamniotic twins as predictor of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome

Twin Res Hum Genet. 2009 Dec;12(6):605-10. doi: 10.1375/twin.12.6.605.

Abstract

Objective: Discordance in nuchal translucency measurements in monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies was assessed as predictor of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome.

Study design: A total of 61 monochorionic diamniotic twins were enrolled. Nuchal translucency (NT) and crown-rump-length (CRL) discordance was calculated as the percentage of delta NT and CRL (absolute difference NT/CRL fetus 1 and fetus 2) of the largest measurement, and correlated with subsequent development of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome.

Results: Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome developed in 14/61 (23%) of cases. A NT discordance of 20% or more best predicted Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome development, with a sensitivity of 64% and a specificity of 78%. We found a positive predictive value of 50% and negative predicted value of 86% for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome development if NT discordance was 20% or more.

Conclusion: NT discordance of more than 20% in monochorionic diamniotic twins is associated with an increased risk for subsequent development of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome, and with earlier presentation of symptoms.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / diagnosis
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nuchal Translucency Measurement*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Pregnancy
  • Twins*