ABSTRACT
Echogenicity of the fetal bowel seen sonographically can vary at different gestational ages. Increased echogenicity of small bowel loops is seen commonly in the second trimester. We encountered a case of increased bowel echogenicity with shadowing in the third trimester in a fetus who had meconium ileus associated with cystic fibrosis. Other reports also indicate that a persistent echogenic appearance of fetal small bowel in the third trimester, particularly with shadowing, is worrisome and can be associated with meconium ileus.
Subject(s)
Cystic Fibrosis/complications , Fetal Diseases/diagnosis , Intestinal Obstruction/diagnosis , Meconium , Adult , Female , Humans , Intestinal Obstruction/etiology , Pregnancy , Pregnancy Trimester, Third , UltrasonographyABSTRACT
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by secretive binge eating and purging with induced vomiting, laxatives, and diuretics. The disorder primarily afflicts young white women between 18-35 years of age. We report the case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman with a 17-year history of bulimia that involved up to six episodes of binging and purging daily. A multidisciplinary approach enabled outpatient management throughout gestation. The pregnancy resulted in the delivery of a normal 3000-g female infant at term. The ramifications for maternal and fetal well-being and the goals of therapeutic management are discussed.
