Squamous cell peritonitis associated with hydrometrocolpos in a multimalformed newborn

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Surgery
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Squamous cell peritonitis is a rare condition in neonates.
• Vaginal atresia with hydrometrocolpos can lead to complex congenital anomalies.
• Understanding the pathogenesis of these rare conditions is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A 1-day-old newborn presented with extensive squamous cell peritonitis.
• The condition stemmed from vaginal atresia with hydrometrocolpos and squamous cell reflux.
• Ultrasound revealed oligohydramnios and a dilated proximal vagina ('large bladder').

Findings:

• Associated anomalies included paraesophageal hiatus hernia with squames, urethral atresia, absent vulva, lung hypoplasia, and mild corpus callosum hypoplasia.
• A short umbilical cord with a single umbilical artery (SUA) was noted.
• The interplay between SUA and infradiaphragmatic malformations was discussed.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare combination of congenital malformations.
• Early recognition and understanding of squamous cell peritonitis pathogenesis are vital.
• Further research into the association of SUA with complex malformations is warranted.