Ductus Venosus Agenesis and Portal System Anomalies-Association and Outcome

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Fetal Medicine
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Agenesis of the ductus venosus (ADV) and portal venous system (PVS) anomalies can impact fetal development.
• Prenatal diagnosis of these vascular anomalies is essential for understanding potential complications and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prenatal diagnosis of agenesis of the ductus venosus (ADV) and portal venous system (PVS) anomalies.
• To describe the outcomes of isolated or associated cases of ADV and PVS anomalies.
• To assess the relationship between ADV and PVS abnormalities and their predictive value.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 3517 ultrasound examinations in the second and third trimesters.
• Evaluation of intrahepatic vascular system, umbilical drainage, and PVS characteristics.
• Follow-up of diagnosed cases for six months.

Main Results:

• 19 cases were prenatally diagnosed: 18 ADV, 7 abnormal PVS, and 6 with both.
• Incidence rates were 5.1‱ for ADV and 1.9‱ for PVS anomalies.
• 27.7% of ADV cases were isolated; 26.3% had genetic anomalies. PVS anomalies were present in 33.3% of ADV cases, and ADV in 85.7% of PVS anomalies.

Conclusions:

• ADV and PVS abnormalities occur more frequently than previously reported.
• Normal ductus venosus development is critical for PVS development.
• Associated fetal anomalies and PVS evaluation are key predictors for ADV outcomes and long-term prognosis.