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Immediate and unexplained fetal death during mid-trimester amniocentesis |
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| Authors: | Lawrence R Shapiro MD Niecee Singer Shlomo M Mannor |
| Institution: | Departments of Pediatrics, Pathology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Westchester County Medical Center and New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
Genetics Laboratory, Letchworth Village Developmental Center, Thiells, New York, U.S.A. |
| Abstract: | Immediate and unexplained fetal death during mid-trimester amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis was found to be an uncommon though real phenomenon. A survey of programmes in the United States detected 5 cases from 7524 at 4 centres. Postmortem examination was not helpful and a neurogenic mechanism is postulated. Awareness of this phenomenon and routine pre- and post-amniocentesis ultrasound monitoring may clarify the actual prevalence and etiology. |
| Keywords: | Amniocentesis Immediate fetal death |