middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity
Also written as: MCA-PSV — Middle Cerebral Artery Peak Systolic Velocity
A Doppler ultrasound measurement used to assess fetal anemia and predict the need for intrauterine transfusion.
Full Definition
Middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV) is a specialized Doppler ultrasound parameter that measures blood flow velocity in the fetal middle cerebral artery. This measurement is primarily used to detect fetal anemia non-invasively, particularly in cases of maternal alloimmunization (such as Rh disease) or other conditions that may cause fetal anemia. Elevated MCA-PSV values indicate increased cardiac output compensating for anemia and help clinicians determine the optimal timing for intrauterine blood transfusion. The measurement is expressed as multiples of the median (MoM) for gestational age and is considered abnormal when it exceeds 1.5 MoM.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound modifier; capitalize when abbreviated as MCA-PSV.
In Context
- "The MCA-PSV measurement of 2.1 MoM indicated severe fetal anemia requiring immediate intrauterine transfusion." — maternal-fetal medicine report
- "Serial middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity monitoring showed progressive improvement following the second intrauterine blood transfusion." — obstetric consultation note