ABSTRACT
Recent reports have indicated an increased risk for fetal chromosome abnormalities, especially autosomal trisomy, in fetuses with isolated cystic hygroma, or prominent nuchal membranes, detected by ultrasonography during the first trimester. However, these reports present contradictory information regarding the prognostic significance of septations within the cystic hygroma. We evaluated, in blind fashion, 55 consecutive cases of isolated fetal cystic hygroma detected at or before 13.9 weeks' gestation to determine the association between septations and fetal chromosome complement. Septations were associated (P < 0.05) with an increased risk for fetal chromosome abnormalities. However, the incidence of chromosome abnormalities was also increased (12.5 per cent) among cases not characterized by septations. Thus, we believe it prudent to offer invasive prenatal testing to all women found to be carrying fetuses with cystic hygroma, irrespective of the presence or absence of septations.
Subject(s)
Chromosome Aberrations/diagnosis , Lymphangioma, Cystic/diagnostic imaging , Ultrasonography, Prenatal , Adult , Chromosome Disorders , Female , Fetal Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Fetal Diseases/genetics , Fetal Diseases/pathology , Humans , Lymphangioma, Cystic/genetics , Lymphangioma, Cystic/pathology , Pregnancy , Pregnancy Trimester, First , Risk FactorsABSTRACT
A case is presented of perforated duodenal ulcer with associated abscesses treated by percutaneous drainage in a patient with markedly impaired respiratory function. The potential role of conservative management in such patients is discussed.
