Growth of the fetal lens and orbit

Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2002 Mar;76(3):267-71. doi: 10.1016/s0020-7292(01)00581-1.

Abstract

Objectives: To present normal lens and orbital measurement ranges by gestational age.

Methods: Three hundred and thirty-five women with uneventful pregnancies were evaluated from the 15th to the 40th week of gestation. Lens and orbital measurements were added to routine biometric measurements for normal fetuses.

Results: A strong linear correlation was observed between gestational age (GA) and lens diameter (R(2)=0.89; P<0.0001), circumference (R(2)=0.89; P<0.0001), and surface (R(2)=0.90; P<0.0001). A linear correlation was also found between GA and orbital diameter (R(2)=0.92; P<0.0001), circumference (R(2)=0.92; P<0.0001) and surface (R(2)=0.95; P<0.0001). A linear growth function was observed between biparietal diameter and both lens diameter (R(2)=0.90; P<0.0001) and orbital diameter (R(2)=0.94; P<0.0001).

Conclusion: Lens and orbital measurements provide normative data for fetal growth and development. These data may be also helpful in detecting fetal ocular anomalies.

MeSH terms

  • Embryonic and Fetal Development
  • Eye / embryology
  • Eye Abnormalities / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Lens, Crystalline / anatomy & histology
  • Lens, Crystalline / embryology*
  • Orbit / anatomy & histology
  • Orbit / embryology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Regression Analysis
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal