[Fetal pathology--in relation to prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling]

The results of systematic autopsies of 29 fetuses from a consecutive material consisting of 19 late spontaneous abortions and four induced abortions from the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in the Municipal Hospital in Arhus are presented. Where the spontaneous abortions were concerned, a cause of the abortion was revealed in 15 out of 19 cases (79%). Infection caused eight abortions, pathological placental conditions caused four, umbilical cord complications one case, an IUD in utero one case and severe fetal malformations one case. Serious congenital malformations were present in six out of the total number of 29 fetuses (21%). The diagnoses could be established in five cases and the risk of recurrence could be assessed. Increased fetal pathological activity in the form of systemic fetal pathological examinations will result in improved genetic counselling, more certain prenatal diagnosis and improved understanding of the pathogenesis of congenital deformities.