[Prenatal diagnosis of three caudal regression syndromes associated with maternal diabetes]

We report three cases of caudal regression syndrome diagnosed in utero. Caudal regression syndrome (CRS) is a rare condition associating vertebral agenesia and urinary and digestive tract malformations. Pathogenesis is not clear but, as in our three cases, the CRS is often associated with poorly controlled maternal diabetes. Antenatal ultrasound examinations may reveal the disease in major forms with a non-viable foetus. In our 3 cases, a femoral "V" was associated with sudden interruption of the spine. Minor forms may not be recognized until childhood. Prognosis depends essentially on the extent of spinal involvement and associated malformations. Sirenomelus was considered for many years to be the most severe form of caudal regression, but recently acquired evidence suggests that these two conditions are separate entities.