Fetal Megacystis: Associated Structural Abnormalities and Obstetric Outcomes.

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Medical Imaging
• Genetics

Background:

• Fetal megacystis (FM) is a condition characterized by an enlarged fetal bladder.
• Understanding its associated abnormalities and outcomes is crucial for prenatal counseling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate obstetrical outcomes, ultrasonographic characteristics, and final diagnoses in pregnancies with fetal megacystis.
• To identify common associated anomalies and etiologies of fetal megacystis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of pregnancies diagnosed with fetal megacystis between 2000 and 2021.
• Analysis of obstetrical outcomes, including termination rates, intrauterine death, and survival.
• Assessment of associated structural abnormalities and identified etiologies.

Main Results:

• 17 cases of fetal megacystis were identified, with 16 having follow-up.
• 87.5% of pregnancies were terminated; 6.25% resulted in intrauterine death; 6.25% survived.
• 75% of cases had associated sonographic findings, most commonly umbilical cord cyst (18.75%).
• Identifiable causes included posterior urethral valves, trisomy 18, trisomy 13, Prune Belly syndrome, and Megacystis-Microcolon-Hypoperistalsis syndrome.

Conclusions:

• Fetal megacystis is often detected in the second trimester.
• The majority of affected pregnancies are terminated due to associated anomalies.
• A significant percentage of fetal megacystis cases have identifiable causes and associated ultrasound findings.