Video Lecture Fetal Lung Maturity Testing: Current Challenges and Considerations

Dr. David Grenache addresses the current challenges facing both laboratorians and physicians regarding fetal lung maturity (FLM) testing due to anticipated changes in a widely used, commercially available FLM test. Dr. Grenache reviews the laboratory tests currently available for the assessment of fetal lung maturity and offers a testing strategy to meet the specific needs of clinicians. Additionally he describes neonatal respiratory distress syndrome including its pathophysiology, management, and treatment.

Originally presented March 30, 2010 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Lecture Presenter

David Grenache, PhD, MT(ASCP), DABCC, FACB David Grenache, PhD, MT(ASCP), DABCC, FACB
Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, University of Utah
Medical Director, Special Chemistry, ARUP Laboratories

Dr. Grenache received his B.A in biology and B.S. in medical technology from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, MA and his Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, MA. He completed his postdoctoral training in clinical chemistry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. He is board certified by the American Board of Clinical Chemistry and is a fellow in the National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry. His research interests are in the areas of reproductive biochemistry, clinical applications of soluble tumor markers, and emerging biomarkers of disease.

Objectives

After this presentation, attendees will be able to:

  • Describe the pathophysiology and treatment of respiratory distress syndrome
  • Compare and contrast the different types of fetal lung maturity tests and discuss their clinical utility
  • Discuss contemporary issues facing fetal lung maturity tests
  • Plan a successful validation of the lamellar body count test

Sponsored by:

University of Utah School of Medicine and ARUP Laboratories