Humeral length (obstetric ultrasound)

Last revised by Arlene Campos on 20 Feb 2024

The humeral length (HL) is sometimes measured as an additional fetal biometric parameter in a second-trimester ultrasound scan. Its measurement can often complement the femoral length, especially in situations where there are short limb syndromes. Short humeral lengths have been associated with conditions such as Down syndrome 1.

According to one study, the mean humerus diaphysis length was reported at 2

  • 17.65 mm at 15 weeks

  • 48.10 mm at 28 weeks

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