Reference values for fetal penile length and width from 22 to 36 gestational weeks

ABSTRACT Objective

Current reference range values for fetal penile growth are based on length measurements. However, methodologies for measuring penile length differ among studies and from the standard technique used in children. We propose that the measurement of penile width may aid in its evaluation. The aim of the study was to create normograms for penile length and width.

A prospective cross‐sectional design was used. One hundred male fetuses at 22 to 36 gestational weeks were included. On ultrasound examination, penile length was measured from tip to base, where the penis joins the scrotum. Penile width was measured at the widest point across the penis. Reference values for the 5th and 95th percentiles were calculated for each gestational week.

There was a good correlation between gestational age and penile length (R² = 0.606) and width (R² = 0.683). The percentile of fetal weight estimation independently affected penile length and width. The interobserver correlation coefficient was 0.939 for length and 0.909 for width.

Reference range values of fetal penile length and width are presented for 22 to 36 weeks of gestation. These values correlate to gestational age and estimated fetal weight percentile. These reference range measurements may help the evaluation of suspected micropenis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.