Assessing the predictive value of first trimester ultrasound and biochemical markers in miscarriage: A scoping review

Introduction

Vaginal bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy generates anxiety and uncertainty for expecting parents. The ability to determine pregnancy outcome through a first trimester ultrasound scan remains a challenge in obstetrics. Several first trimester ultrasound markers used individually or in combination, as well as ultrasound markers used in combination with biochemical markers, have been studied to determine their predictive value in pregnancy outcome. This scoping review was performed to determine which markers have already been investigated for this purpose.

Methods

An extensive and systematic database search was performed using four different categories of keywords which were combined using Boolean terms. A total of 14 variables were included on the final data charting forms. Data was synthesised collectively for each variable and then separately for the studies analysing only one marker. For the studies which analysed multiple markers, data was synthesised based on the number of markers per study.

Results

The search yielded 3608 studies, of which 128 were ultimately used for this review. Data extraction, based on predetermined eligibility criteria, was performed by two authors independently. Seventy-seven (62.6%) studies investigated the predictive value of a single ultrasound marker. The remaining 46 (37.4%) studies explored multiple markers, of which at least one was an ultrasound marker.

Conclusion

This review identified several discrepancies among different studies. This highlights the need for better consensus among researchers to allow for the design of a predictive model which enables extrapolation of findings to all pregnant women.

Implications for practice

Through the study of ultrasound and biochemical markers in the first trimester of pregnancy, clinicians may provide a more accurate prediction of pregnancy outcome following threatened miscarriage.