MCA Doppler
Also written as: MCA — Middle Cerebral Artery
Middle cerebral artery Doppler ultrasonography used to assess fetal anemia and cerebral blood flow patterns.
Full Definition
Middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler is a specialized ultrasound technique that measures blood flow velocity in the fetal middle cerebral artery. The peak systolic velocity (PSV) in the MCA is used primarily to detect fetal anemia, particularly in cases of maternal alloimmunization or other causes of hemolysis. An elevated MCA PSV (>1.5 multiples of the median for gestational age) suggests fetal anemia and may indicate the need for further evaluation or intervention such as cordocentesis or intrauterine transfusion. The test is non-invasive and has largely replaced more invasive procedures like serial amniocentesis for monitoring at-risk pregnancies.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MCA PSV when referring to peak systolic velocity measurements.
In Context
- "MCA Doppler studies will be performed weekly to monitor for fetal anemia." — Management plan
- "The elevated MCA Doppler peak systolic velocity prompted cordocentesis." — Procedure indication