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Birkemeier K. MR Imaging of the Fetal Genitourinary Tract. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2024; 32:529-551. [PMID: 38944439 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Fetal MR imaging overcomes many of the technical barriers of ultrasound and is an important diagnostic tool for fetal genitourinary (GU) anomalies. It is suited for evaluation of GU anomalies because of the fluid-sensitive sequences and superior soft tissue contrast. Often GU malformations are part of a multisystem genetic or congenital condition, and imaging the entire fetus with MR adds additional clarity about the extent of disease. It adds confidence to diagnoses of renal agenesis, urinary tract dilation, cystic disease, and tumors. It is particularly useful to delineate anatomy in complex GU malformations. This additional information guides counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Birkemeier
- Department of Radiology, McLane Children's Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Texas A&M School of Medicine, 2401 South 31st Street, MS-01-W256, Temple, TX 76508, USA.
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Griffith AM, Woodward PJ, Kennedy AM. Troubleshooting Tips for Diagnosing Complex Fetal Genitourinary Malformations. Radiographics 2024; 44:e230084. [PMID: 38127660 DOI: 10.1148/rg.230084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Fetal genitourinary anomalies can present a diagnostic challenge for the radiologist. The absence of a normally located kidney may represent agenesis or be secondary to a fusion or migration abnormality. A dilated renal pelvis should prompt evaluation for a specific cause, including ureteropelvic junction obstruction, reflux, or an obstructed duplicated system. Cystic parenchymal changes are characteristic of a multicystic dysplastic kidney but may also be seen in obstructive cystic dysplasia. There are numerous causes of megacystis including chromosomal (trisomy 18 syndrome), obstruction (posterior urethral valves, urethral atresia), or muscular dysfunction (prune belly syndrome, megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome). Important mimics of a large bladder include hydrocolpos and urogenital sinus or cloacal malformation. Complications of genitourinary malformations are common and include oligohydramnios, urinary ascites, and urinoma. Making an accurate diagnosis often requires additional US views beyond those obtained in the standard fetal survey and occasionally performing fetal MRI. The appropriate use of orthogonal T2-weighted sequences, in conjunction with diffusion-weighted images for evaluation of the kidneys and gradient-recalled-echo sequences for evaluation of T1-hyperintense meconium in the colon, can play an integral role in diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis of fetal genitourinary malformations is vital to direct patient counseling and pregnancy management as outcomes are highly variable. Some conditions can be surgically corrected quite simply, some require multiple complex procedures, and some are lethal. The authors offer troubleshooting tips to narrow the differential diagnosis for four observations: unilateral absent kidney, dilated renal pelvis, cystic renal parenchyma, and megacystis and its mimics. ©RSNA, 2023 Test Your Knowledge questions are available in the Online Learning Center.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Griffith
- From the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah Health, 30 N Mario Capecchi Dr, 2nd Floor South, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
| | - Paula J Woodward
- From the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah Health, 30 N Mario Capecchi Dr, 2nd Floor South, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
| | - Anne M Kennedy
- From the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah Health, 30 N Mario Capecchi Dr, 2nd Floor South, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
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Vinit N, Ville Y, Blanc T. [In utero surgery for lower urinary tract obstruction]. Med Sci (Paris) 2023; 39:227-233. [PMID: 36943119 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2023030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal therapy for LUTO (Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction) is debated due to mixed results regarding postnatal renal function following fetal cystoscopy or vesicoamniotic shunting. Current literature is, however, limited by the inability to determine the cause of the obstruction using plain sonography and the lack of selection criteria for fetuses who may benefit from prenatal therapy. Fetal cystoscopy may serve as a diagnostic tool and would offer a more "physiologic" treatment for bladder outlet obstruction. However, it carries additional technical issues due to inappropriate instrumentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Vinit
- Service de chirurgie viscérale et urologie pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France - UFR de médecine Paris Centre, université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Yves Ville
- Service d'obstétrique, médecine et chirurgie fœtale, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, 149 rue des Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France - UFR de médecine Paris Centre, université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Blanc
- Service de chirurgie viscérale et urologie pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France - UFR de médecine Paris Centre, université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Udayakumar N, Smith E, Boone A, Porter KK. A Common Path: Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Müllerian and Wolffian Duct Anomalies. Curr Urol Rep 2023; 24:1-9. [PMID: 36595101 DOI: 10.1007/s11934-022-01138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes the pathway of Mullerian and Wolffian duct development, anomalies that result from disruptions to this pathway, and the characteristics on advanced imaging that identify them. RECENT FINDINGS In-office evaluation for reproductive anomalies is usually inadequate for the diagnosis of congenital reproductive anomalies. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has usurped invasive diagnostic methods including laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, and vasography as the new gold standard. Because of its superior soft-tissue delineation and the availability of advanced functional sequences, MRI offers a sophisticated method of distinguishing reproductive anomalies from one another, characterizing the degree of defect severity, and evaluating for concomitant urogenital anomalies non-invasively and without radiation exposure to the patient. Congenital anomalies of the Mullerian and Wolffian duct can be incredibly nuanced, requiring prompt and accurate diagnosis for management of infertility. Definitive diagnosis should be made early with MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Udayakumar
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Elainea Smith
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Amy Boone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kristin K Porter
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Alamo L, Gengler C, Hanquinet S, Rougemont AL, Meuwly JY. Prenatal magnetic resonance imaging of complex female genitourinary system abnormalities, what the fetal medicine specialist needs to know. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:84-94. [PMID: 36367171 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Complex female genitourinary system anomalies include a wide spectrum of uncommon pathologies, caused from the abnormal separation of the urorectal septum and the urogenital sinus in early embryonic life. The resulting fusion of the distal urinary, genital and intestinal tracts increases the risk of death in utero and alters the normal organ functionality and the quality of life in survivors. An accurate prenatal identification of these pathologies depends mainly on prior suspicion at ultrasound screening, but also requires a solid knowledge of embryology and familiarity with the different patterns of malformation. Prenatal MRI provides an excellent anatomic evaluation of the fetal anatomy that may improve the diagnosis in complex cases with inconclusive echographic findings. The additional information can help both families and medical teams to better evaluate the severity of the pathology and the postnatal prognosis and therefore to better orientate the management during pregnancy, at delivery and after birth. This review article describes the embryological basis and the clinical findings of the most relevant pathologies included in the spectrum. It also describes the imaging signs on prenatal MRI studies in a series of confirmed cases and proposes a diagnostic algorithm based on imaging findings for guiding prenatal diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonor Alamo
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carole Gengler
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sylviane Hanquinet
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Genève (HUG), Genève, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Laure Rougemont
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Genève (HUG), Genève, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Yves Meuwly
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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Abstract
The most severe forms of congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract present in fetal life with early pregnancy renal anhydramnios and are considered lethal due to pulmonary hypoplasia without fetal therapy. Due to the high rate of additional structural anomalies, genetic abnormalities, and associated syndromes, detailed anatomic survey and genetic testing are imperative when stratifying which pregnancies are appropriate for fetal intervention. Restoring amniotic fluid around the fetus is the principal goal of prenatal treatment. The ongoing multi-center Renal Anhydramnios Fetal Therapy (RAFT) trial is assessing the safety and efficacy of serial amnioinfusions to prevent pulmonary hypoplasia so that the underlying renal disease can be addressed.
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Eshiba SM, Zahran MH, Elnekeidy AM, Abdeldayem TM, Hassan HHM. Added value of fetal MRI as a complementary method to antenatal ultrasound in the assessment of non-CNS fetal congenital anomalies. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-022-00708-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Birth defects and congenital anomalies are different words used to describe developmental abnormalities that occur at birth. Congenital anomalies diagnosis during pregnancy is a difficult topic to which ultrasonography has made significant contributions. The availability of a generally safe, independent technique in the evaluation of prenatal anomalies would be a welcomed clinical and scientific alternative. Ultrasound (US) is the predominant modality for evaluating disorders related to fetus and pregnancy. In most situations, this examination by a professional operator offers sufficient information about fetal morphology, surroundings, and well-being. The abnormalities revealed by ultrasound can be subtle or inconclusive at times. MRI has been demonstrated to be useful in such circumstances in various studies. So the effective use of fetal MRI in the evaluation of non-CNS abnormalities of the body is a reason for adopting fetal MRI as an adjunct to US in obstetric imaging. This study aimed to examine the role of fetal MRI as a complementary method to the antenatal US in assessing non-CNS anomalies and how it changed or modified the diagnosis of anomalies.
Results
By analyzing the data of 30 pregnant females with fetal non-CNS congenital anomalies, the diagnostic accuracy of prenatal ultrasound alone in the detection of congenital anomalies was 76%, with a sensitivity of about 76%. And diagnostic accuracy of MRI alone was 96.6%, with a sensitivity of approximately 96.6%. Moreover, the diagnostic accuracy of combined prenatal US and prenatal MRI in the detection of congenital anomalies was 100%, with sensitivity about 100% and PPV about 100%.
Conclusion
Fetal MRI raises confidence in non-CNS malformation assessment. Compared to US, MRI overcomes many of the obstacles faced by the antenatal US. MRI is superior to the US in refining, changing, or adding more diagnostic information about the disease.
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Laarif S, Daïb A, Ben Abdallah R, Saadi C, Hellal Y, Kaabar N. Congenital giant megaureter prenatally diagnosed: A case report. Urol Case Rep 2022; 45:102244. [PMID: 36193216 PMCID: PMC9525809 DOI: 10.1016/j.eucr.2022.102244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital giant megaureter (CGM) is uncommon in pediatic population, defined as congenital localized or total dilatation of the ureter to over 10 times the normal diameter with a normal bladder. Herein, we reported an entirely dilated CGM presented as neonatal bowel obstruction in a newborn baby. Our experience has suggested that CGM should be considered as a differential diagnosis of abdominal distension and occlusive syndrome.
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Mohammad SA, Rawash LM, AbouZeid AA. Imaging of urinary tract in children in different clinical scenarios: a guide for general radiologists. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-021-00584-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Children are frequently referred to the pediatric radiology department due to complaints related to the urinary tract.
Main body
We aimed to describe common clinical scenarios in paediatric urology practice and their recommended imaging diagnostic algorithms. Practical imaging approach to following common clinical scenarios and the common radiological findings are discussed: (A) perinatal urinary tract dilatation and other congenital anomalies; (B) recurrent urinary tract infection; (C) enuresis and daytime urinary incontinence; (D) abdominal masses; (E) flank pain; (F) hematuria; (G) trauma; (H) nonpalpable testis, ambiguous genitalia and common urogenital sinus anomalies; and I) renovascular hypertension
Conclusions
Imaging investigations should be tailored according to the clinical presentation in a stepwise approach aiming for optimum patients’ care.
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Farrugia MK, Kilby MD. Therapeutic intervention for fetal lower urinary tract obstruction: Current evidence and future strategies. J Pediatr Urol 2021; 17:193-199. [PMID: 33583743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In-utero vesica-amniotic shunting for fetal lower urinary obstruction (LUTO) is known to improve perinatal survival. More recently, studies including centres performing fetal cystoscopy, have suggested benefit on longer-term survival and renal outcome - within the limitations of small numbers and limited follow-up. These interventions carry significant risk, and therefore patient selection, and optimal timing, are key. The aim of this article is to explore ways of improving the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis, and of identifying risk factors for fetal and postnatal renal failure. The next step is that of using established staging and classification systems to select the patient group that may benefit from intervention, based on published outcomes. Several factors come into play when selecting the timing of intervention, especially if the aim is that of renal, and not only pulmonary, preservation. Lastly, current technologies and their shortfalls are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Klaire Farrugia
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK; Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Mark D Kilby
- Fetal Medicine Centre, Birmingham Women's and Children's Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK; College of Medical & Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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Abstract
Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is classically based on prenatal ultrasound identification of a dilated/ thick-walled bladder, bilateral hydronephrosis, dilated ureters and a dilated posterior urethra (also known as the "keyhole sign") in a male fetus. Although the most common underlying diagnosis is posterior urethral valves, the prenatal appearance may be similar with urethral atresia or stenosis, the Prune-Belly Syndrome, or even a cloacal anomaly in a female. These conditions form part of the Congenital Anomalies of Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT) spectrum, which is the commonest cause of end-stage renal disease in children. Although it is difficult to predict postnatal renal function from the prenatal appearance, studies have recently identified predictive features (based on ultrasound findings and fetal biochemistry), and established staging systems to assist with counselling, and, where indicated, patient selection for in-utero intervention. Current in-utero therapy includes amnio-infusion, vesico-amniotic shunting, and fetal cystoscopy with valve ablation or urethral stenting. Postnatal survival and renal functional outcomes, complications and management uncertainties are described, highlighting areas of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Klaire Farrugia
- Chelsea and Westminster and Imperial College Hospitals, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Imperial College London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
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Gupta S, Mohi JK, Gambhir P, Mohi MK. Prenatal diagnosis of congenital anomalies of genito-urinary system on fetal magnetic resonance imaging. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-020-00278-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The aim of this study is to elucidate the spectrum of commonly encountered anomalies affecting fetal genito-urinary system (GUS) on fetal MRI and examine its utility in providing better morphological information resulting in improved diagnostic accuracy and in detecting additional malformations. The study also aims to highlight the promising role of fetal MRI in the detection and characterization of renal fusion anomalies like the horseshoe kidney or developmental abnormalities such as renal agenesis/ectopia.
Results
The mean age of study participants was 29 years ± 3 years. The gestation age of pregnant mothers ranged from 18 weeks and 1 day to 39 weeks and 0 day. Amniotic fluid was reduced or absent in 41% (N = 13) and normal in 59% (N = 18) of participating mothers. Overall, urinary obstruction was the commonest anomaly encountered (29%) followed by the multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) (22%). Bilateral renal disease was seen in all mothers having features of anhydramnios {B/L MCDK (N = 3), autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) (N = 2), posterior urethral valves (PUV) (N = 2), B/L renal agenesis (N = 3), and megacystis (N = 1)}. Fusion anomalies (horseshoe kidney) and rotation anomaly (malrotation) were detected in one case each. Additional extrarenal findings were seen on fetal MRI in 35% (N = 11) cases.
Conclusions
Fetal MRI improves diagnostic accuracy in anomalies affecting the fetal kidney and genito-urinary systems by better morphological delineation. It has the ability to detect additional extra-renal malformations and perform a more accurate assessment of associated pulmonary hypoplasia. The diffusion-weighted sequence is particularly useful in confirming the diagnosis of renal agenesis/ectopia.
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Prayer D, Deprest J. The use of MRI in fetal conditions amenable for antenatal management. Prenat Diagn 2020; 40:3-5. [PMID: 31860748 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Prayer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Division of Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan Deprest
- Clinical Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, and Academic Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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