ABSTRACT

Objective: To review (summarize), in maternal red blood cell alloimminization, the diagnostic value of Doppler blood flow velocity in the evaluation and prediction of fetal anemia.

Design: A review article.

Setting: Department of Obstetrics 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 used for 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 determining the degree of anemia. A Doppler interval of seven days is recommended. The widespread use of the Doppler method will minimize fetal complications associated with amniocentesis and fetal blood sampling and may significantly lower health care cost.

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