Fetal biparietal diameter in Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

In a prospective, cross-sectional study the fetal biparietal diameter [BPD] was measured by ultrasound in 1,570 pregnant Saudi patients. Tables for normal growth of the BPD and to estimate the fetal age are given. It has long been a question as to what extent normal growth curves depend on the racial and socioeconomic factors of the population being studied. The BPD-growth curve obtained in Saudi Arabia is compared to curves for other countries. Our curve is almost identical to the Japanese and some American curves; however, dating errors of the fetal age are possible when an inappropriate chart is used. Ethnic factors influence growth curves less than methodical or interindividual contributions