Fetal cystic hygroma: prenatal diagnosis and management

Seventeen cases of fetal cystic hygroma detected during ultrasound examination are reported. In nine instances, associated abnormalities were recognized, such as fetal hydrops and a two-vessel cord. All diagnoses were confirmed at autopsy. Karyotyping revealed normal findings in six cases, Turner's syndrome in eight cases, and Edwards' syndrome in one case; culture failure occurred in the remaining two cases. An ultrasound diagnosis of cystic hygroma should be followed by a careful search for other anomalies and by fetal karyotyping. Afterward, genetic counseling is indicated.