History of Fetal Neurology (Past, Current, Future)
Michael Chadehumbe1, Alison Christy2, Dawn Gano3, Sonika Agarwal4
1The Wilberforce School, 2Providence Health and Services, 3University of CA SF, 4Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Objective:
Describe the historical progress in fetal neurology.
Background:

Fetal neurology is a rapidly evolving subspecialty within child neurology. The discoveries are as early as the 16th century and enhance the understanding of the developing central nervous system and its evolution for comprehensive counseling and management of prospective parents facing an in-utero diagnosis. This abstract highlights the evolution of the field and the key technological milestones that have advanced this subspecialty.

Design/Methods:

Our research delved into the historical literature from 1900-2024, using reputable databases like PubMed and JSTOR. Our analysis focused on identifying thematic trends, methodological advancements, and milestone key findings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of fetal neurology.

Results:

Ian Donald and his colleagues introduced ultrasound in 1956, revolutionizing prenatal diagnostics. Ultrasound enabled physicians to visualize fetal brain structures in real-time. Raymond Damadian later discovered Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the late 1970s. The use of MRI in fetal diagnostics was approved in 1982, providing high-resolution images of the fetal brain and enhancing comprehensive prognostic counseling and management.

Today, we have seen progress in understanding fetal neurological development's, molecular, and genetic aspects. From the ability to do amniocentesis in the 1960s to non-invasive prenatal testing in 2012, followed by whole genome sequencing in 2020, advances in genetic technology, including the discovery of genes associated with early-onset neurological disorders, have expanded the knowledge of prenatal risk factors and pathways involved in fetal brain development. 

Conclusions:

Technological advancements have been a driving force behind these improvements, empowering neurologists to utilize imaging and genetic data more effectively. The integration of telemedicine has improved access to this specialized service, offering greater support to patients and enhancing consultation and providing prognostic considerations. The future holds even greater promise, with the potential for profound impacts on early diagnosis, therapeutics, ethical considerations, and in-utero interventions for improved neurological outcomes.

10.1212/WNL.0000000000208606
Disclaimer: Abstracts were not reviewed by Neurology® and do not reflect the views of Neurology® editors or staff.