Jane Chueh

All Publications

• Prepregnancy body mass index and gestational diabetes mellitus across Asian and Pacific Islander subgroups in California. AJOG global reports Sperling, M. M., Leonard, S. A., Blumenfeld, Y. J., Carmichael, S. L., Chueh, J. 2023; 3 (1): 100148

  Abstract

  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends early screening for gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant Asian people with a prepregnancy body mass index ≥23.0 kg/m2, in contrast with the recommended screening at a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 for other races and ethnicities. However, there is significant heterogeneity within Asian and Pacific Islander populations, and gestational diabetes mellitus and its association with body mass index among Asian and Pacific Islander subgroups may not be uniform across all groups.This study aimed to analyze the association between body mass index and gestational diabetes mellitus among Asian and Pacific Islander subgroups in California, specifically gestational diabetes mellitus rates among those with a body mass index above vs below 23 kg/m2, which is the cutoff point for the designation of being overweight among Asians populations.Using a linked delivery hospitalization discharge and vital records database, we identified patients who gave birth in California between 2007 and 2017 and who self-reported to be 1 of 13 Asian and Pacific Islander subgroups, which was collected from birth and fetal death certificates. In each subgroup, we evaluated the association between body mass index and gestational diabetes mellitus using multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for age, education, parity, payment method, the trimester in which prenatal care was initiated, and nativity. We fit body mass index nonlinearly with splines and categorized body mass index as being above or below 23 kg/m2. Predicted probabilities of gestational diabetes mellitus with 95% confidence intervals were calculated across body mass index values using the nonlinear regression models.The overall prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus was 14.3% (83,400/584,032), ranging between 8.4% and 17.1% across subgroups. The highest prevalence was among Indian (17.1%), Filipino (16.7%), and Vietnamese (15.5%) subgroups. In these subgroups, gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed in 10% to 13% of those with a body mass index <23.0 kg/m2 and in 22% of those with a body mass index ≥23 kg/m2. Gestational diabetes mellitus was least common among Korean (8.4%), Japanese (9.0%), and Samoan (9.8%) subgroups with a gestational diabetes mellitus rate of 5% to 7% among those with a body mass index <23.0 kg/m2 and in 10% to 15% among those with a body mass index ≥23 kg/m2. Although Samoan patients had the highest rate of obesity, defined as body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 (57.4%), they had the third lowest prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus. Conversely, Vietnamese patients had the second lowest rate of obesity (2.4%) but the highest rate of gestational diabetes mellitus at a body mass index of ≥23 kg/m2 (22.3%).Gestational diabetes mellitus and its association with body mass index varied among Asian subgroups but increased as body mass index increased. Subgroups with the lowest prevalence of obesity trended toward a higher prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus and those with a higher prevalence of obesity trended toward a lower prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.xagr.2022.100148

  View details for PubMedID 36632428

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC9826825

• Understanding the distinction between cleft lip and cleft palate: a critical step for successful prenatal detection. Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology Minor, K., Chueh, J. 2023

  Abstract

  Orofacial clefts (OCs) are among the most common congenital anomalies, however, prenatal detection of cleft palate without cleft lip (CP) remains low. CP is associated with a higher risk of associated structural anomalies, recurrence risk and genetic aberrations. There is opportunity to optimize prenatal diagnosis, counseling and diagnostic genetic testing for OCs.Improving prenatal diagnosis of CP requires understanding that embryologically, the secondary palate develops from the 6th to the 10th week and fuses with the primary palate by the 12th week. Multiple first, second and third trimester 2D ultrasonographic markers for OCs have been described including the maxillary gap, frontal space, maxilla-nasion-mandible angle, retronasal triangle, palatino-maxillary diameter, equal sign, nonvisualization or gap in the soft to hard palate interface and loss of the superimposed line. We discuss the technique, evidence and limitations of each.Prenatal detection of OC can be optimized by employing 2D sonographic markers. Prenatal detection of CP may be improved by recognizing its high association with retrognathia/micrognathia.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GCO.0000000000000852

  View details for PubMedID 36912278

• An exploratory analysis of leukocyte telomere length among pregnant and non-pregnant people. Brain, behavior, & immunity - health Panelli, D. M., Diwan, M., Cruz, G. I., Leonard, S. A., Chueh, J., Gotlib, I. H., Bianco, K. 2022; 25: 100506

  Abstract

  Background: Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is a biomarker that is affected by older age, psychosocial stress, and medical comorbidities. Despite the relevance of these factors to obstetric practice, little is known about LTL in pregnancy. Our study explored longitudinal LTL dynamics in pregnant and non-pregnant people.Objective: This pilot study compares changes in LTL between pregnant and non-pregnant people over time, explores potential correlations between LTL and mental health measures, and investigates associations between short first-trimester LTL and adverse pregnancy outcomes.Study design: This was a prospective pilot cohort study of nulliparous pregnant and non-pregnant people between ages 18 and 50 who presented for care at a single institution from January to November 2020. Pregnant people were enrolled between 10 and 14 weeks gestation. Participants had two blood samples drawn for LTL; the first on the day of enrollment and the second on postpartum day 1 (pregnant cohort) or 7 months later (non-pregnant cohort). LTL was measured using quantitative PCR. The primary outcome was the difference between pregnant and non-pregnant people in LTL change between the two timepoints (basepair difference per 30-day period). Secondary outcomes included differences in responses to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a survey about stress related to COVID-19. Differences in LTL were tested using t-tests and linear regression models, both crude and adjusted for age. A subgroup analysis was conducted within the pregnant cohort to examine whether shorter first-trimester LTL was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. We conducted t-tests to compare LTL between people with and without each categorical outcome and computed Pearson correlation coefficients between LTL and continuous outcomes such as gestational age at delivery.Results: 46 pregnant and 30 non-pregnant people were enrolled; 44 pregnant and 18 non-pregnant people completed all LTL assessments. There were no between-group differences in LTL change (-4.2±22.2 bp per 30 days pregnant versus -6.4±11.2 bp per 30 days non-pregnant, adjusted beta 2.1, 95% CI -9.0-13.2, p=0.60). The prevalence of depression and pandemic-related stress were both low overall. The two groups did not differ in PHQ-9 scores, and no correlations were significant between LTL and PHQ-9 scores. Among the 44 pregnant people, shorter first-trimester LTL was significantly correlated with earlier gestational age at delivery (r=0.35, p=0.02).Conclusion: In this exploratory pilot cohort of reproductive-aged people with low levels of psychological stress, we described baseline changes in LTL over time in pregnant and non-pregnant participants. We found a correlation between shorter first-trimester LTL and earlier gestational age at delivery, which warrants further investigation in a larger cohort.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100506

  View details for PubMedID 36110146

• Impact of a Potential 20-Week Abortion Ban on Likelihood of Completing Required Views in Second-Trimester Fetal Anatomy Ultrasound. American journal of perinatology Henkel, A., Beshar, I., Cahill, E. P., Blumenfeld, Y. J., Chueh, J., Shaw, K. A. 2022

  Abstract

   The aim of this study was to quantify the likelihood of assessing all mandated fetal views during the second-trimester anatomy ultrasound prior to the proposed federal 20-week abortion ban. Retrospective cohort study of a random sample of 1,983 patients undergoing anatomy ultrasound in 2017 at a tertiary referral center. The difference in proportion of incomplete anatomic surveys prior compared with after 20-week gestation was analyzed using X 2 and adjusted logistic regression; difference in mean days elapsed from anomaly diagnosis to termination tested using t-tests and survival analysis. Incomplete views were more likely with initial ultrasound before 20 weeks (adjusted relative risk: 1.70; 95% confidence interval: 1.50-1.94); 43.5% versus 26.1% were incomplete before and after 20 weeks, respectively. Fetal structural anomalies were identified in 6.4% (n = 127/1,983) scans, with 38.0% (n = 49) identified at follow-up after initial scan was incomplete. 22.8% (n = 29) with an anomaly terminated. A complete assessment of fetal views during an anatomy ultrasound prior to 20-week gestation is often not technically feasible. Legislation limiting abortion to this gestational age would greatly impact patient's ability to make informed choices about their pregnancies.· It is often not technically possible to complete anatomy ultrasound prior to 20-week gestation.. · Often, anomalies are missed during early, incomplete anatomy ultrasounds.. · After the diagnosis of a structural anomaly, one in five chose to terminate the pregnancy..

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0042-1749138

  View details for PubMedID 35576967

• Frequency of cerclage in consecutive pregnancies of women with history of preterm birth. Journal of neonatal-perinatal medicine Khorshid, A., Mayo, J., Chueh, J., Shaw, G. M., Stevenson, D., Ness, A. 2022

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Serial cervical length screening is performed in women with a history of preterm birth to determine indication for cerclage placement. Our aim is to evaluate the frequency of cerclage placement in consecutive pregnancies with preterm birth history to determine whether performing serial cervical length screening for women with a history of late (34-36 6/7 weeks) spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) should be reconsidered.METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of cerclage frequency and gestational age of delivery for consecutive singleton births for 69,671 women whose first birth was a SPTB.RESULTS: History of late SPTB was associated with a lower frequency of cerclage than history of early SPTB (0.83% vs 4.88%, OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.14-0.18). Rates of recurrent SPTB were lower for women with history of late SPTB than those with history of early SPTB (13.45%, 3.74% early, 9.71% late vs 20.69%, 9.12% early, 11.57% late).CONCLUSION: Women with a history of late PTB have a lower risk of recurrent PTB than those with a history of early PTB but constitute most of those undergoing serial cervical length screening for potential cerclage placement. Practice guidelines for screening women with a history of late PTB should be re-evaluated.

  View details for DOI 10.3233/NPM-210834

  View details for PubMedID 35404291

• Leukocyte Telomere Length in the First Trimester of Pregnancy and its Association with Perinatal Outcomes Panelli, D., Diwan, M., Cruz, G. I., Leonard, S. A., Chueh, J., Gotlib, I. H., Bianco, K. SPRINGER HEIDELBERG. 2022: 155

  View details for Web of Science ID 000762765300282

• Cellular Aging and Stress in Pregnant and Non-Pregnant People During the COVID-19 Pandemic Panelli, D., Diwan, M., Cruz, G. I., Leonard, S. A., Chueh, J., Gotlib, I. H., Bianco, K. SPRINGER HEIDELBERG. 2022: 191

  View details for Web of Science ID 000762765300376

• Attention-guided deep learning for gestational age prediction using fetal brain MRI. Scientific reports Shen, L., Zheng, J., Lee, E. H., Shpanskaya, K., McKenna, E. S., Atluri, M. G., Plasto, D., Mitchell, C., Lai, L. M., Guimaraes, C. V., Dahmoush, H., Chueh, J., Halabi, S. S., Pauly, J. M., Xing, L., Lu, Q., Oztekin, O., Kline-Fath, B. M., Yeom, K. W. 1800; 12 (1): 1408

  Abstract

  Magnetic resonance imaging offers unrivaled visualization of the fetal brain, forming the basis for establishing age-specific morphologic milestones. However, gauging age-appropriate neural development remains a difficult task due to the constantly changing appearance of the fetal brain, variable image quality, and frequent motion artifacts. Here we present an end-to-end, attention-guided deep learning model that predicts gestational age with R2 score of 0.945, mean absolute error of 6.7days, and concordance correlation coefficient of 0.970. The convolutional neural network was trained on a heterogeneous dataset of 741 developmentally normal fetal brain images ranging from 19 to 39weeks in gestational age. We also demonstrate model performance and generalizability using independent datasets from four academic institutions across the U.S. and Turkey with R2 scores of 0.81-0.90 after minimal fine-tuning. The proposed regression algorithm provides an automated machine-enabled tool with the potential to better characterize in utero neurodevelopment and guide real-time gestational age estimation after the first trimester.

  View details for DOI 10.1038/s41598-022-05468-5

  View details for PubMedID 35082346

• Obstetric ultrasound (US) quality improvement initiative: Long-term results of a quality assurance protocol Joudi, N., Leonard, S. A., Pugh, B., Chueh, J., Blumenfeld, Y. J. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2022: S554-S555

  View details for Web of Science ID 000737459401226

• Editorial: Does it take a pandemic to get pregnant? Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology Chueh, J. 2021; 33 (5): 419-420

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GCO.0000000000000738

  View details for PubMedID 34459794

• Prepregnancy body mass index and gestational diabetes mellitus across asian subpopulations Sperling, M., Leonard, S. A., Waldrop, A. R., Miller, S., Blumenfeld, Y. J., Carmichael, S., Chueh, J. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2021: S118–S119

  View details for Web of Science ID 000621547400177

• Do women who delivered at 34-36 weeks need serial transvaginal ultrasound cervical lengths? Ness, A., Chueh, J., Mayo, J. A., Shaw, G. M., El Sayed, Y., Stevenson, D. K. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2020: S401

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.11.644

  View details for Web of Science ID 000504997300627

• Human Placental Vasculature Imaging Using Long Ensemble Angular-coherence-based Doppler Li, Y., Chueh, J., Ness, A., Hyun, D., Jakovljevic, M., Lyell, D., Winn, V., Dahl, J. J., IEEE IEEE. 2020

  View details for Web of Science ID 000635688900338

• Outcome of cerclage in pregnancies without a prior preterm birth Chueh, J., Ness, A., Mayo, J. A., El-Sayed, Y. Y., Shaw, G. M., Stevenson, D. K. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2020: S672–S673

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.11.1103

  View details for Web of Science ID 000504997301409

• Prenatal diagnosis CURRENT OPINION IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Chueh, J. 2018; 30 (2): 102–3

  View details for PubMedID 29489500

• Prenatal diagnosis. Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology Chueh, J. 2017; 29 (2): 71-72

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GCO.0000000000000352

  View details for PubMedID 28253207

• Prenatally Diagnosed Cases of Binder Phenotype Complicated by Respiratory Distress in the Immediate Postnatal Period. Journal of ultrasound in medicine Blumenfeld, Y. J., Davis, A. S., Hintz, S. R., Milan, K., Messner, A. H., Barth, R. A., Hudgins, L., Chueh, J., Homeyer, M., Bernstein, J. A., Enns, G., Atwal, P., Manning, M. 2016; 35 (6): 1353-1358

  Abstract

  Binder phenotype, or maxillonasal dysostosis, is a distinctive pattern of facial development characterized by a short nose with a flat nasal bridge, an acute nasolabial angle, a short columella, a convex upper lip, and class III malocclusion. We report 3 cases of prenatally diagnosed Binder phenotype associated with perinatal respiratory impairment.

  View details for DOI 10.7863/ultra.15.02050

  View details for PubMedID 27162279

• Randomized, Double-Blinded Trial of Magnesium Sulfate Tocolysis versus Intravenous Normal Saline for Preterm Nonsevere Placental Abruption AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PERINATOLOGY Colon, I., Berletti, M., Garabedian, M. J., Wilcox, N., Williams, K., El-Sayed, Y. Y., Chueh, J. 2016; 33 (7): 696-702

  Abstract

  Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate in the resolution of vaginal bleeding and contractions in nonsevere placental abruption. Study Design Thirty women between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation diagnosed with nonsevere placental abruption were randomized to receive magnesium sulfate tocolysis or normal saline infusion. The primary outcome was the proportion of women undelivered at 48 hours with resolution of vaginal bleeding and uterine contractions. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were also compared. Results Fifteen (50%) women received magnesium sulfate tocolysis and 15 (50%) received intravenous saline. There was no difference in the number of women who were undelivered at 48 hours with resolution of vaginal bleeding and contractions in the magnesium sulfate (80.0%) and saline (66.7%; p-value = 0.68) groups. There were no differences between groups in the gestational age at randomization, time to uterine quiescence, time on study drug, length of hospitalization, days from randomization to delivery, incidence of side effects, or admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit. Conclusions Magnesium sulfate tocolysis did not provide a significant difference in pregnancy prolongation in the management of preterm nonsevere placental abruption. Recruitment goals were not met due to the introduction of the use of magnesium sulfate for neuroprotection.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0036-1571324

  View details for Web of Science ID 000376521500010

  View details for PubMedID 26871905

• Fetofetal Transfusion Syndrome in Monochorionic-Triamniotic Triplets Treated with Fetoscopic Laser Ablation: Report of Two Cases and A Systematic Review. AJP reports Blumenfeld, Y. J., Shamshirsaz, A. A., Belfort, M. A., Hintz, S. R., Moaddab, A., Ness, A., Chueh, J., El-Sayed, Y. Y., Ruano, R. 2015; 5 (2): e153-60

  Abstract

  Objective This study aims to determine the clinical outcomes of monochorionic-triamniotic (MT) pregnancies complicated by severe fetofetal transfusion undergoing laser photocoagulation. Study Design We report two cases of MT triplets complicated by fetofetal transfusion syndrome (FFTS) and a systematic review classifying cases into different subtypes: MT with two donors and one recipient, MT with one donor and two recipients, MT with one donor, one recipient, and one unaffected triplet. The number of neonatal survivors was analyzed based on this classification as well as Quintero staging. Results A total of 26 cases of MT triples complicated by FFTS were analyzed. In 56% of the cases, the FFTS involved all three triplets, 50% of whom had an additional donor and 50% an additional recipient. Among the 24 cases that survived beyond 1 week after the procedure, the average gestational age of delivery was 29.6 weeks, and the average interval from procedure to delivery was 10.1 weeks. The overall neonatal survival rate was 71.7%, with demises occurring equally between donor and recipient triplets. Overall neonatal survival including survival of at least two fetuses occurred with equal frequency between the different groups. Conclusion Significant neonatal survival can be achieved in most cases of MT triplets with FFTS.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0035-1552931

  View details for PubMedID 26495175

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC4603872

• Obstetric Ultrasound Quality Improvement Initiative-Utilization of a Quality Assurance Process and Standardized Checklists AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PERINATOLOGY Mrazek-Pugh, B., Blumenfeld, Y. J., Lee, H. C., Chueh, J. 2015; 32 (6): 599-604

  Abstract

  Objective Our aim was to assess whether mandated completion of an electronic checklist and a quality assurance (QA) process improved obstetric (OB) ultrasound image documentation. Study Design A checklist of mandated images based on the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine guidelines was created. A baseline QA assessment was performed with a lead senior sonographer reviewing eight random OB examinations for each sonographer. An electronic checklist was then instituted for all OB examinations on each ultrasound machine. It was mandated that each anatomical structure be checked off during real-time image acquisition. A repeat QA assessment of each sonographer was then performed quarterly. Results Baseline assessments were performed between September 2011 and November 2011. Out of the 110 examinations analyzed, only 49% were deemed "complete" with none of the sonographers having a 100% complete examination rate. Following institution of the mandated electronic checklist, a repeat assessment revealed an 81% complete examination rate for the next quarter, and 90% were complete at the end of a year. All sonographers improved their image acquisition regardless of baseline skill level at the initial QA. Conclusion A QA process and a mandated standardized electronic checklist improved the image documentation.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0035-1545667

  View details for Web of Science ID 000354342400013

  View details for PubMedID 25730132

• Maternal bladder cancer diagnosed at routine first-trimester obstetric ultrasound examination. Obstetrics and gynecology Yeaton-Massey, A., Brookfield, K. F., Aziz, N., Mrazek-Pugh, B., Chueh, J. 2013; 122 (2): 464-467

  Abstract

  Bladder cancer is exceedingly rare in pregnancy and most commonly presents with gross hematuria.We describe two patients with the incidental finding of maternal bladder masses identified during routine first-trimester obstetric ultrasonographic evaluation and an ultimate diagnosis of carcinoma. After referral for urology evaluation and biopsy confirmation of bladder cancer, patients underwent surgical resection during their pregnancies without the need for further treatment and had uncomplicated pregnancy courses.The distended maternal urinary bladder at the time of first-trimester ultrasonographic evaluation offers a unique opportunity for examination and early diagnosis of incidental maternal bladder carcinoma.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/AOG.0b013e31828c5a4d

  View details for PubMedID 23884261

• Urachal duct carcinoma complicating pregnancy. Obstetrics and gynecology McNally, L., Osmundson, S., Barth, R., Chueh, J. 2013; 122 (2): 469-472

  Abstract

  Degenerating myomas are common explanations for pain associated with abdominal masses in pregnancy. However, masses arising from other pelvic organs should be included in the differential diagnosis.We present a case of an abdominal mass in pregnancy that was originally misdiagnosed as a uterine leiomyoma. Attention to the patient's history along with judicious use of imaging modalities led to the correct diagnosis of urachal duct carcinoma. This was treated appropriately and resulted in a term vaginal delivery. We present a review of the literature on this tumor and its management in pregnancy.Urologic malignancies are rare but should be considered in the differential diagnosis for any woman presenting with pain and an abdominal mass in pregnancy. A multidisciplinary approach optimizes outcomes.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/AOG.0b013e318292a3ab

  View details for PubMedID 23884263

• Nonsurgical management of heterotopic abdominal pregnancy. Obstetrics and gynecology Yeh, J., Aziz, N., Chueh, J. 2013; 121 (2): 489-495

  Abstract

  Heterotopic abdominal pregnancies with coexisting intrauterine pregnancies pose unique therapeutic challenges, and management options, particularly nonsurgical approaches, are limited.We present a case in which selective reduction of a heterotopic abdominal pregnancy during the second trimester using fetal intracardiac injection with potassium chloride enabled subsequent vaginal delivery of the intrauterine pregnancy at term. In addition, we summarize nine cases of nonsurgical management of heterotopic abdominal pregnancies, four of which involve potassium chloride selective reduction. Our case is unique in that the abdominal fetus remained as a stable lithopedion, allowing the uncomplicated conception and vaginal delivery of a second intrauterine pregnancy without need for surgical intervention.Our case report and literature review demonstrate the use of selective potassium chloride reduction in managing heterotopic abdominal pregnancy nonsurgically.

  View details for DOI http://10.1097/AOG.0b013e3182736b09

  View details for PubMedID 23344419

• Conservatively Managed Fetal Goiter: An Alternative to in utero Therapy. Fetal diagnosis and therapy Blumenfeld, Y. J., Davis, A., Milan, K., Chueh, J., Hudgins, L., Barth, R. A., Hintz, S. R. 2013; 34 (3): 184-187

  Abstract

  Fetal goiter may arise from a variety of etiologies including iodine deficiency, overtreatment of maternal Graves' disease, inappropriate maternal thyroid replacement and, rarely, congenital hypothyroidism. Fetal goiter is often associated with a retroflexed neck and polyhydramnios, raising concerns regarding airway obstruction in such cases. Prior reports have advocated for cordocentesis and intra-amniotic thyroid hormone therapy in order to confirm the diagnosis of fetal thyroid dysfunction, reduce the size of the fetal goiter, reduce polyhydramnios, aid with the assistance of maternal thyroid hormone therapy and reduce fetal malpresentation. We report two cases of conservatively managed fetal goiter, one resulting in a vaginal delivery, and no evidence of postnatal respiratory distress despite the presence of polyhydramnios and a retroflexed neck on prenatal ultrasound. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  View details for DOI 10.1159/000353387

  View details for PubMedID 23920148

• First Trimester Miscarriage Evaluation SEMINARS IN REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE Lathi, R. B., Hazard, F. K., Heerema-McKenney, A., Taylor, J., Chueh, J. T. 2011; 29 (6): 463-469

  Abstract

  Miscarriage is a relatively common occurrence for otherwise healthy women. Despite its frequency, evaluation for cause is rare. The most common cause of miscarriage is sporadic chromosome errors. Chromosomal analysis of the miscarriage offers an explanation in at least 50% of cases. Conventional cytogenetic evaluation can only be done on fresh tissue, so it is critical that the treating physician consider genetic testing at the time of the miscarriage. Ultrasound can estimate the gestational age at the time of miscarriage and identify major abnormalities in some embryos. A careful pathological examination can add to the evaluation by ruling out rare disorders with the highest recurrence risk. A multidisciplinary approach to miscarriage evaluation is essential to understanding the cause and risk of recurrence. A thorough evaluation of a miscarriage, in combination with emotional support, can often provide the necessary reassurance and confidence as the patient prepares for her next pregnancy.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0031-1293200

  View details for PubMedID 22161459

• Variable expression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 in patients at high risk for preeclampsia JOURNAL OF MATERNAL-FETAL & NEONATAL MEDICINE Dwyer, B. K., Krieg, S., Balise, R., Carroll, I. R., Chueh, J., Nayak, N., Druzin, M. 2010; 23 (7): 705-711

  Abstract

  To explore angiogenic factor differences in preeclamptic patients according to the absence or presence of underlying vascular disease.We prospectively compared serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), soluble endoglin, and placental growth factor (PlGF) from 41 normal-risk and 32 high-risk (preexisting conditions) subjects at serial gestational ages.Median sFlt1 was lower at delivery in preeclamptic patients with underlying chronic hypertension and/or chronic proteinuria (5115 pg/ml) compared with normal risk preeclamptic patients (16375 pg/ml). PlGF was consistently low in patients who developed preeclampsia.Effects of sFlt1 may be contextual, varying according to the health or disease state of vascular endothelium.

  View details for DOI 10.3109/14767050903258753

  View details for Web of Science ID 000279865300024

  View details for PubMedID 19895348

• Chorionic villus sampling: technique and training CURRENT OPINION IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Blumenfeld, Y. J., Chueh, J. 2010; 22 (2): 146-151

  Abstract

  Over the past decade, first trimester screening has become the gold standard prenatal screening modality in the developed world. This shift toward earlier screening would not be possible without the availability of early diagnosis, namely, chorionic villus sampling (CVS). The purpose of this review is to highlight recent updates related to CVS technique, potential complications, and training.Recent data highlight the importance of operator experience in reducing CVS-related complications and argues for the 'centralization' of CVS in experienced centers. On the other hand, despite over 30 years of clinical practice, there is still no consensus regarding optimal CVS technique and some variation exists between CVS providers. Moreover, there is a deficiency in adequate infrastructure geared toward the training and certification of future CVS providers.CVS is the gold standard method of first trimester prenatal diagnosis. Recent data suggest that CVS loss rates are lower than what was previously reported and are lowest in centers that perform a large number of procedures. The 'centralization' of this specialized procedure also offers the perfect opportunity for the safe, ongoing training of future CVS providers.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GCO.0b013e3283372365

  View details for Web of Science ID 000276562900010

  View details for PubMedID 20154617

• Prospective Randomized Trial of Simulation Versus Didactic Teaching for Obstetrical Emergencies Joint Annual Meeting of the Association-of-Professors-of-Gynecology-and-Obstetrics/Council-on-Resident-Education-in-Obstetrics-and-Gynecology Daniels, K., Arafeh, J., Clark, A., Waller, S., Druzin, M., Chueh, J. LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS. 2010: 40–45

  Abstract

  The objective of this study was to determine whether simulation was more effective than traditional didactic instruction to train crisis management skills to labor and delivery teams.Participants were nurses and obstetric residents (<5 years experience). Both groups were taught management for shoulder dystocia and eclampsia. The simulation group received 3 hours of training in a simulation laboratory, the didactic group received 3 hours of lectures/video and hands-on demonstration. Subjects completed a multiple-choice questionnaire before training and before testing. After 1 month, all teams underwent performance testing as a labor and delivery drill. All drills were video recorded. Team performances were scored by a blinded reviewer using the video recordings and an expert-developed checklist. The data were analyzed using independent samples Student t test and analysis of variance (one way). P value of < or =0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.There was no statistical difference found between the groups on the pretraining and pretesting multiple-choice questionnaire scores. Performance testing performed as a labor and delivery drill showed statistically significant higher scores for the simulation-trained group for both shoulder dystocia (Sim = 11.75, Did = 6.88, P = 0.002) and eclampsia management (Sim = 13.25, Did = 11.38, P = 0.032).In an academic training program, didactic and simulation-trained groups showed equal results on written test scores. Simulation-trained teams had superior performance scores when tested in a labor and delivery drill. Simulation should be used to enhance obstetrical emergency training in resident education.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SIH.0b013e3181b65f22

  View details for Web of Science ID 000276077900009

  View details for PubMedID 20383090

• Microfluidic digital PCR enables rapid prenatal diagnosis of fetal aneuploidy 29th Annual Meeting of the Society-for-Maternal-Fetal-Medicine Fan, H. C., Blumenfeld, Y. J., El-Sayed, Y. Y., Chueh, J., Quake, S. R. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2009

  Abstract

  The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enables rapid, allele independent molecular detection of fetal aneuploidy.Twenty-four amniocentesis and 16 chorionic villus samples were used for microfluidic digital PCR analysis. Three thousand and sixty PCR reactions were performed for each of the target chromosomes (X, Y, 13, 18, and 21), and the number of single molecule amplifications was compared to a reference. The difference between target and reference chromosome counts was used to determine the ploidy of each of the target chromosomes.Digital PCR accurately identified all cases of fetal trisomy (3 cases of trisomy 21, 3 cases of trisomy 18, and 2 cases of triosmy 13) in the 40 specimens analyzed. The remaining specimens were determined to have normal ploidy for the chromosomes tested.Microfluidic digital PCR allows detection of fetal chromosomal aneuploidy utilizing uncultured amniocytes and chorionic villus tissue in less than 6 hours.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.03.002

  View details for Web of Science ID 000265253800029

  View details for PubMedID 19375573

• Dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy discordant for bladder exstrophy. Advances in urology Tu, W., Chueh, J., Kennedy, W. 2009: 186483-?

  Abstract

  A 38 year-old woman presented with a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy at gestational age of 32 weeks concerning for an abdominal wall mass in one of the twins. Initial ultrasound evaluation was suspicious for an omphalocele, but the affected twin was found to have bladder exstrophy at birth. This illustrates the difficulties of accurate prenatal diagnosis of bladder exstrophy in a twin pregnancy at a late gestation.

  View details for DOI 10.1155/2009/186483

  View details for PubMedID 19753322

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC2742653

• Fetus in fetu: 11 fetoid forms in a single fetus - Review of the literature and imaging JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE Gerber, R. E., Kamaya, A., Miller, S. S., Cronin, D. M., Dwyer, B., Chueh, J., Conner, K. E., Barth, R. A. 2008; 27 (9): 1381-1387

  View details for Web of Science ID 000258853200015

  View details for PubMedID 18716149

• Vascular-type disruptive defects in fetuses with homozygous alpha-thalassemia: report of two cases and review of the literature PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS Adam, M. P., Chueh, J., El-Sayed, Y. Y., Stenzel, A., Voge, H., Weaver, D. D., Hoyme, H. E. 2005; 25 (12): 1088-1096

  Abstract

  The thalassemias are an inherited group of heterogeneous anemias in which one or more of the globin chains in the hemoglobin tetramer are absent. Fetuses with homozygous alpha-thalassemia, which is particularly prevalent in people of Southeast Asian extraction, experience deficient alpha-globin chain synthesis and cannot produce hemoglobin F (the primary fetal hemoglobin after 8 weeks' gestation). Instead, they produce an anomalous hemoglobin, hemoglobin Bart's, with an unusually high affinity for oxygen, leading to profound anemia and tissue hypoxia.Here we report on two fetuses with homozygous alpha-thalassemia who displayed structural defects of a vascular disruptive type. Both fetuses demonstrated limb anomalies, including terminal transverse limb deficiencies, and one fetus was found to have a brain malformation consisting of a neuronal migrational defect. The limb anomalies and suspected brain malformation were detected on prenatal ultrasound prior to confirmation of the diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia in one case; in the other case prenatal records were not available. While microcephaly, hydrocephalus, and retarded brain growth have been rarely reported in association with homozygous alpha-thalassemia, this is the first report of a true brain malformation in an affected fetus. Limb anomalies, on the other hand, appear to be more frequent. Recently, aggressive in utero and postnatal therapies for homozygous alpha-thalassemia have been attempted with some success.Our cases and those from the medical literature suggest that couples need to be counseled about the risks of congenital anomalies of a vascular disruptive type in affected fetuses. Furthermore, data from the literature suggests that in utero therapy may not significantly decrease these risks as such anomalies may be present prior to the institution of therapy. In addition, in hydropic infants with vascular disruptive defects, especially in those of Southeast Asian origin, homozygous alpha-thalassemia should be suspected as a likely etiology.

  View details for DOI 10.1002/pd.1276

  View details for Web of Science ID 000234280900003

  View details for PubMedID 16231329

• Detection of sonographic markers of fetal aneuploidy depends on maternal and fetal characteristics 10th Congress of the World-Federation-for-Ultrasound-in-Medicine-and-Biology Taslimi, M. M., Acosta, R., Chueh, J., Hudgins, L., Hunter, K., Druzin, M. L., Chitkara, U. AMER INST ULTRASOUND MEDICINE. 2005: 811–15

  Abstract

  The purpose of this study was to determine factors that influence the detection rate of sonographic markers of fetal aneuploidy (SMFA).We reviewed the sonographic images of 160 consecutive second-trimester trisomic fetuses for the presence of SMFA, either structural anomalies or sonographic soft markers.One hundred forty-nine (93.1%) records were complete and analyzed; 78 cases (52.3%) were identified with 1 or more SMFA. Sonographic markers of fetal aneuploidy were detected in 42.7%, 75.0%, and 90.9% of trisomies 21, 18, and 13, respectively (P<.005). The detection rate of SMFA had a positive linear correlation with gestational age (adjusted R(2)=0.64; P<.002). Sonographic markers of fetal aneuploidy were detected in 43.7% of fetuses of less than 18.0 weeks' gestation and 64.5% of fetuses of 18.0 weeks' gestation or greater (likelihood ratio=6.4; P<.01). Sonographic markers of fetal aneuploidy were detected in 23.5% of patients with suboptimal image quality versus 58.3% of the others (likelihood ratio=7.5; P<.05). The rate of structural malformation was similar between the male and female fetuses, whereas that of soft markers was 49.4% in male and 30.0% in female fetuses (odds ratio=2.3; range, 1.2-4.5; P<.02). Factor analysis showed that some soft markers and some structural anomalies tended to appear together.The type of fetal trisomy, gestational age, sex, and quality of images influence the detection rate of SMFA. The highest detection rate for SMFA in the second trimester is at or above 18 weeks' gestational age. Certain markers are detected in clusters. These findings may explain, in part, the variability in reported rates of detection of SMFA among trisomic fetuses. These findings need to be prospectively tested in the general population of pregnancies for applicability to sonographic risk calculations for fetal trisomies.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000229461900009

  View details for PubMedID 15914685