Prenatal screening and diagnosis of fetal cardiac arrhythmias

Background: Fetal cardiac arrhythmias occur in ۱-۲% of pregnancies and require accurate prenatal diagnosis and management. Early identification allows assessment of prognosis and need for intervention. Objective: To discuss current approaches to screening, diagnostic evaluation and management of fetal cardiac arrhythmias. Methods: Literature review examining routine and specialized screening techniques, ultrasound modalities for diagnosis, and principles guiding delivery planning. Results: Routine auscultation and ultrasound during prenatal visits can detect potential arrhythmias, warranting referral. High-risk histories necessitate surveillance screening. Two-dimensional, M-mode and Doppler ultrasound characterize arrhythmias. Additional testing tracks rhythms. Diagnosis assesses structural abnormalities, ventricular function, and hydrops risk. Delivery management considers fetal condition and pediatric support access. Conclusions: Targeted screening identifies fetal arrhythmias. Comprehensive ultrasound and ancillary testing permit diagnosis crucial for prognostication and therapy. Multidisciplinary care individualizes delivery planning balancing fetal and maternal wellbeing.

کلیدواژه ها:

Fetal arrhythmias ، Prenatal screening ، Fetal echocardiography