Abdominal circumference vs. estimated weight to predict large for gestational age birth weight in diabetic pregnancy

Early third trimester fetal abdominal circumference and sonographic fetal weight estimates were compared to predict large for gestational age birth weight in diabetic pregnancy. Both parameters have similar sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. However, the optimal percentile cutoff values differ. Choice of birth weight standard significantly influences test characteristics. Negative prediction of large birth weight is more accurate than positive prediction. At third trimester sonography with maternal diabetes, the abdominal circumference percentile is potentially useful and should be routinely reported. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc.