On June 14, 2024 we celebrated that Dr. Malou Lugthart, a PhD student from our group, has successfully defended her PhD dissertation titled “Seeing the Unseen – the Importance of Prenatal Screening.”

Guided by Gynecologists Prof. Eva Pajkrt and Dr. Liesbeth Van Leeuwen and Embryologist Dr. Bernadette de Bakker, Dr. Lugthart’s research emphasizes impact of advanced prenatal screening techniques. Her beautifully designed dissertation highlights how early and accurate detection can lead to better management of potential complications, ultimately improving outcomes for both mothers and infants. The defense was attended by esteemed colleagues Caroline Bax, Annemijn Aarts, Martijn Oudijk, Lidewij Henneman, and Phillis Lakeman.

Malou’s dissertation delves into the critical role of prenatal screening in detecting congenital anomalies early in pregnancy. Her research emphasizes the advancements in screening technologies and their impact on managing potential complications. Her work highlights how early and accurate detection can significantly improve outcomes for both mothers and infants. Through comprehensive studies and analysis, the dissertation underscores the importance of integrating advanced prenatal screening techniques into standard prenatal care practices to enhance maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Key references:

• Lugthart MA, Bet B, Elsman F, van de Kamp K, van Maarle M, van Leeuwen E, de Bakker BS, Linskens I, Pajkrt. Early increased NT: reason for referral?; Prenat Diagn. 2021; 41(13): 1685- 1693. (IF: 2.425). DOI

• Buijtendijk MFJ, Bet B, Leeflang MMG, Shah H, Reuvekamp T, Goring TCD, Docter D, Timmerman M, Dawood Y, Lugthart MA, Berends B, Limpens J, Pajkrt E, van den Hoff MJB, de Bakker BS. Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound screening for fetal structural anomalies during the first and second trimester of pregnancy in low-risk and unselected populations. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Accepted March 2024 (IF: 11.874). DOI