From non-invasive to invasive fetal therapy

Prenatal screening has become standard of care with the advancements in maternal serum analysis and fetal imaging. These aid in early detection of fetal abnormalities and enables early intervention to reverse pathology and delay the progression. 

Stem cell and gene therapies are newer modalities that aid in preventing abnormalities and congenital diseases in fetuses and neonates. Integration of scientific technology and ethical standards should be implemented for optimal care of the mother and fetus and to improve the benefits of the available treatment modalities.

Precise and early diagnosis of congenital abnormalities and impairments can aid in prenatal care and therapy that may even reverse pathophysiological alterations in the fetus. In addition, long-term follow-ups for the mother and fetuses are essential. Future studies must heed ethical considerations and aim towards increasing the efficacy of the available treatment modalities.

Source: Taiwan Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2021 Jul;60(4):595-601. doi: 10.1016/j.tjog.2021.05.004.