[Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of acardius]

Ultrasonic criteria are formulated and discussed for the diagnosis of this twin malformation by an own case until the 37th week of pregnancy in connection with case history literature. The overall picture presents a cystic-solid tumorous formation with a complex interior structure that can be outlined from uterine wall and placenta owing to passive mobility. An precisely search for still existing fetus-specific structures (spinal column, diaphyses of the limbs) and the identification of vitality by the pulsatile cord in the region of insertion are the main aspects. The observation of the course comprises the growth of the acardiac monster as well as of the healthy twin, together with the search for ultrasonic symptoms of a beginning cardiac insufficiency.