[Use of intracranial translucency measurement in first trimester, beyond spina bifida].

BACKGROUND

The intracranial translucency (IT) is described as echolucid space located in the fetal central nervous system corresponding to the fourth ventricle. Alteration in the first trimester is associated with neural tube defects (NTDs).

OBJECTIVE

Describe the technique and normal values of translucency and everything that makes this resourse a useful option in the detection of defects and abnormalities.

METHODS

We conducted an electronic search of the literature registered in: PubMed, Ovid, and ProQuest, between September 2009 and January 2013.

RESULTS

It describes technical and normal values, factors affecting measurement, intra and inter-observer variability, regarding the screening and diagnosis of NTDs.

CONCLUSION

The IT should be included in the checklist of valuable structures on 11 to 13 ultrasound; its alteration should be related not just o NTDs but posterior fossa anomalies.