[Foetal medicine]

This paper deals with present possibilities in the field of diagnosis and prognosis of foetal malformations and developmental disturbances. Differential diagnosis of congenital malformations, including intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), polyhydramnios and foetal hydrops is discussed on the basis of probable or suspected etiology. Indications for in-utero treatment, applicable only in a very limited and carefully selected number of cases, are considered. In the majority of severe cases of congenital malformations diagnosed prenatally, the only factors considered are: the optimal time and way of terminating pregnancy and the possibilities of therapeutic intervention after birth. The paediatrician - neonatologist plays an important role in a multidisciplinary team dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of congenital malformations.