[Amniotic band syndrome]

Amniotic band syndrome is a well-described clinical entity, which includes several congenital deformities. Hand malformations and limb defects represent the most frequent clinical characteristics, gathering, with variable localization, constriction rings, acrosyndactylies and amniotic amputations. Other anomalies of skull, face, body wall and internal organs, sometimes complex and lethal, are significantly associated with this syndrome. The syndrome is then included in the larger entity of limb body wall complex (LBWC). Congenital ring constriction, amniotic band disruption complex, or congenital transverse defect are some of the numerous synonyms defining this malformative syndrome, showing either its clinical variability, or the uncertainties surrounding its etiology. Indeed, several pathogenic theories have been successively opposed, bringing about a certain degree of confusion. Recent experimental genetic studies could unify the different fetal malformations. The surgical treatment actually applies only to the aftereffects of the intrauterine phenomenon, until antenatal diagnosis followed by in utero surgery will be perfected.