Unconjugated estriol as an indication for prenatal diagnosis of steroid sulfatase deficiency by in situ hybridization.

BACKGROUND

Undetectable or very low unconjugated estriol (E3) levels in routine maternal serum screening are associated with steroid sulfatase deficiency, miscarriages, and anencephaly.

CASES

Fluorescence in situ hybridization techniques were used in the diagnosis of steroid sulfatase deficiency prenatally in three cases with low or undetectable unconjugated E3 levels. Results showed a male fetus with a deleted steroid sulfatase region, but intact Kallmann syndrome region in all three cases. One mother was studied by fluorescence in situ hybridization and showed a similar deletion for steroid sulfatase gene in one copy of X chromosome (carrier).

CONCLUSION

Women with undetectable or very low levels of estriol on serum screening should be counseled regarding steroid sulfatase deficiency with evaluation by fluorescence in situ hybridization.