CLINICAL SIGNIFACNCE OF ISOLATED FETAL SOFT MARKERS DETECTED ON PRENATAL ULTRASOUND AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH PERINATAL OUTCOMES: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Fetal soft markers observed during prenatal ultrasounds are transient sonographic findings that may raise concerns due to their potential association with chromosomal abnormalities and adverse perinatal outcomes. Their clinical significance remains debated, necessitating further research to confirm their validity. Objectives: To assess the outcomes following the detection of ultrasound soft markers, their associations, and clinical significance, and to determine if any markers should be routinely screened Method: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, MMCRI, Mysore, from September 2024 to March 2026. A total of 300 pregnant women undergoing routine second-trimester ultrasounds were enrolled. All participants underwent a follow-up scan between 32–36 weeks, and neonatal assessments were performed post-delivery. Results: Soft markers were found in 16% of participants, with intra-cardiac echogenic focus and single umbilical artery being the most common. A significant association was found between soft markers and previous history of fetal anomalies. However, no significant association was observed between soft markers and maternal age or consanguinity. Neonatal outcomes were generally favorable, with no significant congenital anomalies detected. Conclusion: Most fetal soft markers are benign and transient. Isolated markers, particularly in low-risk pregnancies, are not predictive of adverse neonatal outcomes and should be interpreted within a broader clinical context Contribution: This study contributes to prenatal diagnostics by affirming the benign nature of isolated fetal soft markers, promoting judicious clinical decision-making, minimizing unwarranted interventions, and supporting evidence-based counseling through structured follow-up assessments.