Trisomy 18: behavioral and structural abnormalities. An ultrasonographic case study.

A behavioral and structural analysis using ultrasound of a fetus suffering from Edwards syndrome is described. A number of structural anomalies were observed: the classic hand deformity, extended legs, diamond-shaped head, open mouth and a severe cardiac abnormality. A number of distinctive behavior patterns were observed: vertical eye movements, longitudinal rotation of the trunk, rotation of hands, tremor of extremities and pulsatile body movements, which are not usually seen in the normal fetus. The use of behavioral indicators in the diagnosis of abnormalities is discussed. We conclude that the analysis of behavior may make a significant contribution to the ultrasonographic diagnosis of handicap. Copyright 1992 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology