Fetal malformations associated with chronic polyhydramnios in singleton pregnancies

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Fetal Medicine
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Polyhydramnios, characterized by excessive amniotic fluid, is often associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
• Congenital malformations represent a significant cause of fetal morbidity and mortality.
• Accurate antenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies is critical for appropriate management and counseling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of congenital malformations in singleton pregnancies with chronic polyhydramnios.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of antenatal ultrasound in diagnosing these anomalies.
• To emphasize the importance of expert ultrasound evaluation in cases of polyhydramnios.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 197 singleton pregnancies diagnosed with chronic polyhydramnios.
• Review of antenatal ultrasound findings and postnatal diagnoses of congenital malformations.
• Categorization of malformations by system (central nervous system, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, etc.).

Main Results:

• Forty-one congenital malformations were identified in 28 newborns (14.2% incidence).
• Sixty-one percent of these anomalies were detected via antenatal ultrasound.
• Central nervous system and cardiovascular malformations were the most common, followed by musculoskeletal and genitourinary anomalies.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant association between chronic polyhydramnios and fetal congenital anomalies.
• Antenatal ultrasound, particularly expert evaluation and targeted echo-ultrasonography, is essential for detecting these anomalies.
• Consideration of chromosomal analysis may be warranted in select cases.