Evaluation of fetal autopsy findings in the Hatay region: 274 cases

The aim of this study was to present the incidence of fetal anomalies in our region of Hatay, Turkey in order to determine the efficiency of prenatal diagnosis through fetal autopsy, and to compare our statistical data with other national and international studies.

This study was conducted on 274 fetuses from terminated pregnancies due to abnormal prenatal findings and intrauterine deaths from 2005 to September 2010. Fetuses were evaluated through postmortem examination, external measurements, X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Images, Multislice Computerized Tomography and photographs. The autopsy was completed by the histological examination of each organ.

Autopsy was conducted on 274 fetuses. A fetal anomaly was detected in 160 (58.39%) cases. The central nervous system contained the most frequent structural defects (79 cases, 49.38%), followed by malformations in the musculoskeletal system in 36 cases (22.5%). The most frequent multiple system anomalies were central nervous system defect and bilateral adrenal agenesis, musculoskeletal system malformations and urinary system defects. Fetal autopsy provided additional findings in 43 cases (26.88%).

Fetal autopsy is a very important procedure and an integral part of the general prenatal management. New findings through this method may suggest invaluable data for parents about potential risks in future pregnancies.