Amnion nodosum and congenital ichthyosis

Histologic characteristics of the placentas in four cases of amnion nodosum and congenital ichthyosis, a rare association, are presented. Two cases were missed abortions of a single multiparous woman, supporting the hypothesis that in congenital ichthyosis amnion and skin share an abnormal genetic trait. As the amnion showed no hyperkeratosis, it is likely that the amniotic lesions are related to an increased deposition of keratotic plugs on the amnion. Oligohydramnios was verified in two cases; urinary tract malformations were absent in all. The histologic characteristics of the placentas were similar. Noteworthy was the aspect of the chorionic vessels, whose lumens were reduced or obliterated. Perhaps this feature contributed to the poor nutrition of the amnion, a fact assumed by some authors to explain lesions of amnion nodosum. As these vascular alterations are common after fetal death, it is only in the placenta of the newborn that the vascular changes, compatible with rubella vasculitis, may have altered the nutrition of the amnion.