Binder phenotype in mothers affected with autoimmune disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To report four foetal cases of the Binder phenotype associated with maternal autoimmune disorders.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

In three mothers with autoimmune diseases, 2D and 3D ultrasonographic measurements were made on four foetuses with the Binder profile, and were compared with postnatal phenotypes.

RESULTS

The Binder phenotype can be detected in early pregnancy (14.5 WG). All foetuses had verticalized nasal bones and midfacial hypoplasia. Punctuate calcifications were found in almost all the cases. No specific maternal auto-antibody has been associated with foetal Binder phenotype.

CONCLUSION

Since the Binder phenotype can be diagnosed at ultrasound examination during pregnancy, it is important to establish the underlying cause so as to assess the foetal prognosis. This study stresses the importance of systematic checks for maternal autoimmune disease in cases of prenatally diagnosed Binder phenotypes.