Placental thickness
Sonographic measurement of placental depth, with abnormal values indicating potential complications like hydrops or infection.
Full Definition
Placental thickness refers to the sonographic measurement of the placenta's anteroposterior dimension, typically measured perpendicular to the placental surface at the cord insertion site. Normal placental thickness generally measures between 10-40mm and varies with gestational age. Increased thickness (>40mm) may indicate placental hydrops, maternal diabetes, fetal anemia, or intrauterine infection, while decreased thickness may suggest placental insufficiency or intrauterine growth restriction. This measurement is routinely assessed during anatomical surveys and can provide important diagnostic information about fetal and maternal conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Always express measurements in millimeters. Do not hyphenate when used as a noun phrase.
In Context
- "The placental thickness measured 45mm, raising concern for possible fetal hydrops." — Ultrasound report
- "Serial monitoring of placental thickness may help identify developing placental pathology." — Clinical protocol