The pregnancy at risk for delivery at the threshold of viability.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To examine updated recommendations for obstetrical interventions that may improve neonatal outcomes in extremely preterm births. RECENT FINDINGS: Several recent studies of antenatal steroids at the threshold of viability have demonstrated benefits in both survival and survival without major morbidity. This has led to revised recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist regarding the timing of antenatal steroids in these extremely preterm fetuses. SUMMARY: These recent developments have important implications for clinical care in patients at risk for extremely preterm birth based on a model of best practices and shared decision-making.

Bilateral dermoid cysts of the ovary in a pregnant woman: case report and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: Most nonphysiological ovarian masses discovered during pregnancy are benign dermoid cysts. The association of dermoid cysts with pregnancy has been increasingly reported since 1918. They usually present the dilemma of weighing the risks of surgery and anesthesia versus the risks of untreated adnexal mass. METHOD: We are reporting an illustrative case and presenting a review of the literature for recommendations regarding the management of such cases. RESULT: The bilateral dermoid cysts were surgically treated in the second trimester. CONCLUSION: Most references state that it is more feasible to treat bilateral dermoid cysts of the ovaries discovered during pregnancy if they grow beyond 6 cm in diameter. This is usually performed through laparotomy or very carefully through laparoscopy and should preferably be done in the second trimester.