Prediction of pediatric outcome after prenatal diagnosis and expectant antenatal management of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation

Outcome of fetal congenital pulmonary malformations: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To report the outcome of fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of congenital lung malformation (CLM) diagnosed on ultrasound by performing a comprehensive assessment of these outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTENT

CLMs are a heterogeneous group of anomalies that involve the lung parenchyma and its bronchovascular structures. Their presentation and evolution are variable, from entirely asymptomatic lesions with sonographic regression in utero to hydropic fetuses requiring fetal therapy, intrauterine death or neonatal morbidity. A systematic review was conducted in Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases including studies on fetuses with CLM diagnosed prenatally in order to report the in-utero natural history of these lesions. Thirty-nine studies (2,638 fetuses) were included in the final review.

SUMMARY

Regression/reduction in size of the lung lesion during pregnancy was reported in 31 % of cases, while its increase in 8.5 % of cases. Intra-uterine death complicated 1.5 % of pregnancies with fetal CLM, while neonatal and perinatal death were 2.2 and 3 %, respectively. Neonatal morbidity occurred in 20.6 % of newborns with CLM; 46 % had surgery, mainly elective. In fetuses with CLM and hydrops, fetal/perinatal loss occurred in 42 %. Assessment of the role of fetal therapy in improving the outcomes of pregnancies complicated by CLM was hampered by the small number of included cases and heterogeneity of type of interventions.

OUTLOOK

Fetuses with CLM prenatally diagnosed have a generally favorable outcome. Conversely, there is a low quality of evidence on the actual role of fetal therapy in improving the outcome of fetuses presenting with these anomalies.

[Congenital pulmonary malformations : Diagnosis and treatment]

PERFORMANCE

Congenital pulmonary malformations (CPM) are rare and can be associated with high morbidity. Clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, imaging, and therapy of CPM are discussed.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Today, most CPM can be diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound. Postnatally, respiratory symptoms up to respiratory failure and recurrent lower respiratory tract infection are typical findings. Due to low diagnostic accuracy of chest x‑ray in CPM, all children with prenatal diagnosis of CPM or postnatally suspected CPM should undergo cross-sectional imaging.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on imaging alone, the various subtypes of CPM cannot be definitively differentiated, which is why histological confirmation remains the gold standard. Surgical resection is the standard of care with minimally invasive procedures increasingly being employed. In certain situations, a watch-and-wait approach is possible.

Serial lung mass volume ratios as prognostic indicators of neonatal respiratory morbidity in fetal pulmonary malformations

BACKGROUND

Several studies have shown that the congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio is a useful prognosticator of neonatal outcome in prenatally diagnosed lung lesions. However, there remains a lack of consensus on which congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio values have the best predictive value because of operator dependence, inherent changes in lung lesion size throughout gestation, and the widespread use of maternal steroids.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to determine the association between serial congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio measurements and neonatal outcomes among fetuses with lung malformations.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study of fetuses with a prenatally diagnosed lung malformation managed at 2 major fetal centers from January 2010 to December 2021. Prenatal variables, including prospectively measured congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio measurements (initial, maximum, and final), were analyzed. The results were correlated with 3 outcome measures, namely surgical resection before 30 days of life, a need for supplemental O2 at birth, and endotracheal intubation at birth. Statistical analyses were performed using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, Welch 2 sample t tests, and multivariable logistic regressions (P<.05).

RESULTS

There were 123 fetuses with isolated lung lesions identified. Eight (6.5%) had hydrops. The mean initial congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio was 0.67±0.61 cm2 at 22.9±3.9 weeks' gestation. The mean maximum congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio was 1.08 ± 0.94 cm2 at 27.0 ± 4.0 weeks' gestation. The mean final congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio was 0.58±0.60 cm2 at 33.2±4.1 weeks' gestation. At a mean gestational age at delivery of 38.3±2.6 weeks, 15 (12.2%) underwent neonatal lung resection for symptomatic disease. In a multivariable regression, all 3 congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio measurements showed a significant correlation with neonatal lung resection (P<.001). Optimal congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio cutoffs were established based on an initial congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio of ≥0.8 cm2, maximum congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio of ≥1.5 cm2, and a final congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio of ≥1.3 cm2 with associated areas under the curve of 0.89, 0.97, and 0.93, respectively. The final congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio had the highest specificity for predicting surgical lung resection in the early postnatal period.

CONCLUSION

Measuring congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratios throughout pregnancy in fetuses with pulmonary malformations has clinical value for prenatal counseling and planning care transition after delivery. Fetuses with a final congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio of more than 1.3 cm2 are likely to require neonatal surgery and therefore should be delivered at tertiary care centers with a neonatal intensive care unit and pediatric surgical expertise.

Morbidity and Mortality in Neonates with Symptomatic Congenital Lung Malformation

BACKGROUND

Neonatal resection is the mainstay treatment of children presenting with symptomatic congenital lung malformation (CLM) at birth. The objective of this study was to evaluate risk factors for increased morbidity and mortality after neonatal CLM resection using a large multicenter database.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of the Pediatric Health Information System database was performed. Children with a symptomatic CLM managed by lung resection before 30 days of age were included (2016 to 2021). Primary outcomes measures were postoperative respiratory complication and any complication, including death.

RESULTS

Of 1,791 CLM patients identified, 256 (14%) underwent neonatal resection for symptomatic disease. Pathology included 123 (48%) congenital pulmonary airway malformation, 24 (10%) bronchopulmonary sequestration, 5 (2%) congenital lobar emphysema, 16 (6%) hybrid, and 88 (34%) unclassified lesion. Preoperative mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were employed in 149 (58.2%) and 17 (6.7%) of cases, respectively. The median age at resection was 6.5 days (interquartile range 2 to 23). Postoperatively, 25 (10%) required mechanical ventilation for 48 hours or more, 3 (1%) continued ECMO, and 3 (1%) required ECMO rescue. The overall respiratory complication rate was 34% (87), rate of any complication was 51% (130), median postoperative length of stay was 20 days (interquartile range 9 to 52), and mortality rate was 14.5% (37). Birthweight was inversely correlated with complication risk (incidence rate ratio 0.55, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.83, p = 0.006). Cardiac structural anomaly was associated with a 21-day longer postoperative length of stay (95% CI 6 to 35, p = 0.006) and 2.2 times increased risk of any complication (95% CI 1.18 to 4.02, p = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large multicenter study, ECMO use and mortality are relatively uncommon among neonates undergoing lung resection for a symptomatic CLM. However, postoperative morbidity remains high, particularly in those with cardiac structural disease.

Diagnostic value of congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio for fetal hydrops due to congenital lung malformations: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of a CVR cut-off value of 1.6 for fetal hydrops due to congenital lung malformation (CLM).

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang published before 7/30/2021 for the value of a congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio (CVR) cut-off value of 1.6 for the diagnosis of fetal hydrops. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the literature that met the requirements were obtained. A total of 75 articles were retrieved, and 12 articles were included for further analysis. The quality of these studies was evaluated according to the Quality Assessment for Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy tool (QUADAS-2) criteria. The Q test and heterogeneity I² were used to evaluate the heterogeneity due to non-threshold effects, and Stata 15.0 was used for statistical analysis to evaluate the diagnostic value of the CVR cutoff value of 1.6 for fetal hydrops due to CLM.

Results

A total of 12 studies were included. The QUADAS-2 indicated that the risk of bias was relatively low, and the clinical applicability was relatively high. Statistical analysis was performed on included studies using a random effect model. Meta-analysis showed that the pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic ratio and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) for the diagnosis of fetal hydrops by CVR were 0.86 (95% CI, 0.72–0.93; I² = 59.84), 0.90 (95% CI, 0.88–0.93; I² = 31.94), 58 (95% CI, 22–149; I² = 100%), 0.93 (95% CI, 0.91–0.95).

Conclusions

The sensitivity and specificity of CVR cut-off value 1.6 for the diagnosis of CLM-induced fetal hydrops were high, no publication bias was observed, and the CVR cut-off value 1.6 is meaningful for the early diagnosis prediction of CLM-induced fetal hydrops.

Spectrum of congenital lung and foregut malformations: scope for awareness and prompt management—a case series

Congenital lung and foregut malformations have been described in literature, but most articles are from the Western world. There are a separate set of problems which are faced in our country especially with the misdiagnosis of these problems which has not so much been addressed in writing. We retrospectively reviewed records of all patients with above thoracic lesions treated at a tertiary care hospital in Delhi from March 2017 to December 2019. Twenty patients were found. Eight of 20 patients were detected antenatally but none monitored serially. Age at presentation ranged from 5 days to 18 months. Eight patients presented with respiratory distress at birth. Three of these were congenital lobar emphysema wrongly diagnosed as pneumothorax and brought with intercostal drainage tube inserted. Eight suffered from pneumonia, 4 of which had history of previous hospital admission but undetected congenital pathology. All underwent surgery and had good outcome. There was radiological evidence of compensatory lung growth in all patients at 6 months follow-up. Thus, we conclude that the antenatal detection of congenital lung and foregut malformations may have increased but proper serial monitoring is still missing. There is scope of increasing index of suspicion for these lesions among pediatricians and surgeons. With modern-day safe anesthesia, proactive resection of congenital lung and foregut malformations is associated with good outcome. Delaying treatment predisposes the child to infective complications and makes surgery difficult.

Prediction of postnatal outcome in fetuses with congenital lung malformation: 2-year follow-up study

OBJECTIVES

To identify, in fetuses with a congenital lung malformation (CLM), prenatal predictors of the need for postnatal respiratory support and the need for surgery by calculating the CLM volume ratio (CVR), and to evaluate the concordance between the prenatal appearance and the postnatal type of CLM.

METHODS

This was an analysis of prenatal, perinatal and postnatal data from fetuses diagnosed with a CLM at the Erasmus University Medical Center - Sophia Children's Hospital in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, between January 2007 and December 2016. For all included fetuses, CVR was measured retrospectively on stored ultrasound images obtained at 18 + 1 to 24 + 6 weeks (US1), 25 + 0 to 29 + 6 weeks (US2) and/or 30 + 0 to 35 + 6 weeks' gestation (US3). Postnatal diagnosis of CLM was based on computed tomography or histology. Primary outcomes were the need for respiratory support within 24 h and surgery within 2 years after birth.

RESULTS

Of the 80 fetuses with a CLM included in this study, 14 (18%) required respiratory support on the first postnatal day, and 17 (21%) required surgery within 2 years. Only the CVR at US2 was predictive of the need for respiratory support, with a cut-off value of 0.39. Four of 16 (25%) fetuses which showed full regression of the CLM prenatally required respiratory support within 24 h after birth. The CVR at US1, US2 and US3 was predictive of surgery within 2 years. Overall, the prenatal appearance of the CLM showed low concordance with the postnatal type. Prenatally suspected microcystic congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) was shown on computed tomography after birth to be congenital lobar overinflation in 15/35 (43%) cases. Respiratory support within 24 h after birth and surgical resection within 28 days after birth were needed in all cases of macrocystic CPAM.

CONCLUSIONS

CVR can predict the need for respiratory support within 24 h after birth and for surgery within 2 years. Regression of a CLM prenatally does not rule out respiratory problems after birth. © 2020 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. - Legal Statement: This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.

Comparison of the Prognostic Factors of Fetuses With Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformations According to Type

OBJECTIVES

To compare the prognostic factors of fetuses with microcystic and macrocystic congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAMs).

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated fetuses with CPAMs at Asan Medical Center. The CPAM size, mass effect, and maximum cyst size in macrocystic CPAMs were evaluated prenatally. The adverse postnatal outcomes, including respiratory symptoms, mechanical ventilation, and surgery, were evaluated.

RESULTS

In 118 cases, 2 fetal deaths and 1 neonatal death occurred. All cases of fetal hydrops and complete regression after birth were in the macrocystic and microcystic CPAM groups, respectively. Twenty-four neonates (20.7%) had respiratory symptoms, and 18 (15.5%) required mechanical ventilation. Sixty-three neonates (54.3%) underwent surgery, of whom 21 (33.3%) required surgery in the neonatal period. The maximum congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio was significantly associated with all postnatal outcomes (P < .05), and the optimal cutoff values were lower for respiratory symptoms, mechanical ventilation, and neonatal surgery in the macrocystic CPAMs. The maximum cyst size was also associated with all postnatal outcomes in macrocystic CPAMs (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Different cutoff values for the maximum congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio should be applied according to the CPAM type for the prediction of postnatal outcomes. The maximum cyst size can also be a useful prognostic factor in macrocystic CPAMs.

Impact of Additional Anomalies on Postnatal Outcomes in Congenital Lung Malformations

BACKGROUND

Approximately 20% of fetuses diagnosed with congenital lung malformations (CLMs) are found to have additional anomalies. We aim to determine if additional anomalies have an impact on postnatal outcomes for patients with CLMs.

METHODS

After institutional review board approval, we performed a retrospective review of live-born patients with CLMs from 2008 to 2018. All patients were prenatally diagnosed with CLMs. Clinical information pertaining to additional congenital anomalies and outcomes was collected from the electronic health record and analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 88 patients who had a prenatal diagnosis of CLMs, 20.5% had additional anomalies. Ten of the 18 patients (56%) were considered to have a major anomaly in addition to CLMs. Outcomes for patients electing nonoperative management of CLMs were similar between those with and without an additional anomaly. Although patients with an additional anomaly were more likely to have perinatal respiratory complications (44% versus 17%, P = 0.03), the number of preoperative clinic and emergency department visits, age at surgery, minimally invasive approach to surgical resection of CLM, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, intubation, duration of intubation, 30-day postoperative complications, and long term sequelae were not statistically different. This held true when stratified for major versus minor anomalies.

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty percent of fetuses diagnosed with CLM in our population have additional anomalies. Newborns with additional anomalies have a higher risk of pre-excision pulmonary complications. However, the overall outcomes of all patients with CLMs are similar.

Development of a multi-institutional registry for children with operative congenital lung malformations

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to develop a multi-institutional registry to characterize the demographics, management, and outcomes of a contemporary cohort of children undergoing congenital lung malformation (CLM) resection.

METHODS

After central reliance IRB approval, a web-based, secure database was created to capture retrospective cohort data on pathologically-confirmed CLMs performed between 2009 and 2015 within a multi-institutional research collaborative.

RESULTS

Eleven children's hospitals contributed 506 patients. Among 344 prenatally diagnosed lesions, the congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio was measured in 49.1%, and fetal MRI was performed in 34.3%. One hundred thirty-four (26.7%) children had respiratory symptoms at birth. Fifty-eight (11.6%) underwent neonatal resection, 322 (64.1%) had surgery at 1-12 months, and 122 (24.3%) had operations after 12 months. The median age at resection was 6.7 months (interquartile range, 3.6-11.4). Among 230 elective lobectomies performed in asymptomatic patients, thoracoscopy was successfully utilized in 102 (44.3%), but there was substantial variation across centers. The most common lesions were congenital pulmonary airway malformation (n = 234, 47.3%) and intralobar bronchopulmonary sequestration (n = 106, 21.4%).

CONCLUSION

This multicenter cohort study on operative CLMs highlights marked disease heterogeneity and substantial practice variation in preoperative evaluation and operative management. Future registry studies are planned to help establish evidence-based guidelines to optimize the care of these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

No. 363-Investigation and Management of Non-immune Fetal Hydrops

OBJECTIVE

To describe the current investigation and management of non-immune fetal hydrops with a focus on treatable or recurring etiologies.

OUTCOMES

To provide better counselling and management in cases of prenatally diagnosed non-immune hydrops.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of PubMed or MEDLINE, CINAHL, and The Cochrane Library in 2017 using key words (non-immune hydrops fetalis, fetal hydrops, fetal therapy, fetal metabolism). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials/controlled clinical trials, observational studies, and significant case reports. Additional publications were identified from the bibliographies of these articles. There were no date or language restrictions. Searches were updated on a regular basis and incorporated in the guideline to September 2017. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and health technology-related agencies, clinicalpractice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

These guidelines educate readers about the causes of non-immune fetal hydrops and its prenatal counselling and management. It also provides a standardized approach to non-immune fetal hydrops, emphasizing the search for prenatally treatable conditions and recurrent genetic etiologies.

VALUES

The quality of evidence in this document was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Utility of the Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation-Volume Ratio in the Assessment of Fetal Echogenic Lung Lesions: A Systematic Review

Although relatively uncommon, the incidence of fetal echogenic lung lesions - a heterogeneous group of anomalies that includes congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAM) and bronchopulmonary sequestrations (BPS) - has increased recently. Two decades ago, the CPAM-volume ratio (CVR) was first described as a tool to predict the development of hydrops, with this outcome found to be unlikely in fetuses with CVRs of ≤1.6 cm2. Since then, no clear international consensus has evolved as to the optimal CVR thresholds for the prediction of fetal/neonatal outcomes. This systematic review aimed to assess all original research studies that reported on the predictive utility of the CVR. Potentially relevant papers were identified through searching for citations of the paper that originally described the CVR, in addition to keyword searches of electronic databases. Fifty-two original research papers were included in the final review. Of these, 34 used the CVR for descriptive purposes only, 5 assessed the validity of established thresholds in different populations, and 13 proposed new thresholds. The evidence identified in this review would suggest that a threshold much lower than 1.6 cm2 is likely to be of greater utility in most populations for many outcomes of perinatal relevance. For neonatal outcomes (mostly respiratory compromise at birth), a CVR on the initial ultrasound scan ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 cm2 appears to have the greatest predictive value. Although a number of studies concurred that 1.6 cm2 was a useful threshold for the prediction of hydrops, many others were unable to assess this due to the rarity of this complication. For this reason, thresholds as low as 0.4 cm2 may be more useful for the prediction of a broader range of fetal concerns, including mediastinal shift and fluid collections. Further large-scale studies are required to determine the true utility of this well-established index.

Short-term respiratory outcomes of neonates with symptomatic congenital lung malformations

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to evaluate short-term respiratory outcomes in neonates with symptomatic congenital lung malformations (CLM).

METHODS

Consecutive newborns who underwent surgical resection of a CLM were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, prenatal, and outcomes data were analyzed as appropriate (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Twenty-one neonates were managed at a median gestational age of 36.2 weeks [interquartile range (IQR), 33.8-39.0]. Endotracheal intubation was required in 14 (66.7%) for a median of 7.5 days [interquartile range (IQR), 3.0-25.8]. Three (14.3%) children underwent ex utero intrapartum treatment-to-resection, and another 14 (66.7%) had neonatal lung resections performed at a median age of 2.0 days (IQR, 0.08-19.5 days). Excluding one patient who received comfort care at birth, all neonates survived to hospital discharge with a median length of hospitalization of 36.5 days (IQR, 23.8-56.5). More than one-quarter were discharged on supplemental oxygen by nasal cannula. Based on a median follow up of 35.5 months (IQR, 19.0-80.8), CLM-related morbidity was still evident in 55.0%.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests a high incidence of complications and chronic respiratory morbidity after neonatal lung resection for symptomatic CLMs. These data highlight the need to provide realistic expectations in perinatal counseling discussions with families and the importance of coordinating appropriate multidisciplinary follow up for these children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Utility of Fetal Cardiac Axis and Cardiac Position Assessment in Predicting Neonatal Respiratory Morbidity in Fetal Congenital Lung Lesions

OBJECTIVES

To assess the diagnostic performance of the fetal cardiac axis (CA) and/or cardiac position (CP) versus the congenital pulmonary malformation volume ratio (CVR) in predicting any and severe neonatal respiratory morbidity in fetal congenital lung lesions.

METHODS

This work was an 11-year retrospective cohort study. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CA and/or CP assessment in prediction of respiratory morbidity were calculated before 24 weeks' gestation and between 24 and 32 weeks and compared to CVR cutoffs obtained from the literature.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were included. CA and/or CP abnormalities were present in 45% and 38% of patients before 24 weeks and between 24 and 32 weeks and were significantly more common in left- versus right-sided lesions (60% versus 17%; P = .003). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of an abnormal CA and/or CP for any and severe respiratory morbidity were 0.67, 0.61, 0.33, and 0.86 and 0.8, 0.58, 0.17, and 0.97 before 24 weeks and 0.75, 0.73, 0.45, and 0.91 and 0.8, 0.67, 0.20, and 0.97 between 24 and 32 weeks, respectively. An abnormal CA and/or CP had higher sensitivity for any respiratory morbidity compared to the CVR at 0.5 and 0.8 cutoffs both before 24 weeks and between 24 and 32 weeks (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

An abnormal CA and/or CP before 24 weeks and between 24 and 32 weeks has higher sensitivity for the detection of any respiratory morbidity at birth compared to the CVR at both 0.5 and 0.8 cutoffs. A normal CA and CP have a high negative predictive value for excluding any respiratory morbidity at birth both before 24 weeks and between 24 and 32 weeks.

Congenital lung lesions

Diagnosis and management of congenital lung malformations has evolved dramatically over the past several decades. Advancement in imaging technology has enabled earlier, more definitive diagnoses and, consequently, more timely intervention in utero or after birth, when indicated. These advancements have increased overall survival rates to around 95% from historical rates of 60%. However, further refinement of diagnostic technique and standardization of treatment is needed, particularly as the increased sensitivity of diagnostic imaging results in more frequent diagnoses. In this article, we provide an updated review of the diagnostic strategies, management, and prognosis of congenital lung malformations.

A 9-year audit of fetal chest masses in an Australian maternal-fetal medicine cohort

Introduction

To assess fetal vs. neonatal diagnoses, pregnancy outcomes and need for surgery in babies prenatally diagnosed with congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) or bronchopulmonary sequestration (BPS).

Methods

Retrospective single-centre cohort study of fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of CPAM or BPS between 2006 and 2014. Data collected included serial antenatal ultrasound information and neonatal/infant diagnoses and outcomes.

Results

Initial ultrasound diagnosis (n = 63) was CPAM in 51 and BPS in 12: nineteen (30%) fetuses had mediastinal shift and 2 (3%) had hydrops. All neonates with known birth outcome (n = 56) were liveborn. Final diagnosis in 52 infants (83%) with neonatal imaging and/or histopathology confirmed CPAM in 17/44 (39%) and BPS in 6/9 (67%). Of 34 prenatally suspected but unconfirmed CPAM lesions: 10 had no lesion on neonatal imaging, one no neonatal imaging performed, five confirmed BPS, 11 other lung/thoracic lesions, seven were lost to follow-up. There was one infant death. 27/63 infants (43%) had post-natal surgery. More neonates requiring neonatal respiratory support/resuscitation had surgery compared to those who did not (67% vs. 29%, P = 0.008). Patients with suspected CPAM or BPS on both initial and final ultrasound were more likely to have post-natal surgical management than when a lesion was no longer visible on final antenatal ultrasound (68% vs. 23%, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Over 50% of antenatally suspected CPAM/BPS either regressed or had an alternate post-natal diagnosis. Perinatal outcome was good, with the majority of neonates/infants conservatively managed. Persistently visible antenatal lesion and need for neonatal respiratory support predicted ultimate surgical management.

Fetal Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation: The Role of an Objective Measurement of Cardiomediastinal Shift

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between cardiomediastinal shift angle (CMSA) and adverse perinatal outcomes and hydrops in cases of congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM).

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective study evaluated CPAM cases referred to our institution from 2008 to 2015. The primary outcome was a composite score for adverse perinatal outcome. CMSA was measured for each case and evaluated for its association with the primary outcome. The prediction accuracy of CMSA for adverse perinatal outcome was assessed using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

Eighteen (21.2%) of the 85 cases experienced an adverse perinatal outcome. Increases in CMSA were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes and hydrops in bivariate analyses. Adjusted analyses found each 10-degree increase in CMSA to be associated with increased odds of an adverse perinatal outcome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-3.3) and hydrops (aOR 3.0, 95% CI: 1.5-6.1). CMSA performed well and was comparable to CPAM volume ratio in predicting adverse perinatal outcomes (area under the curve 0.81 and 0.84, respectively).

CONCLUSION

We describe a novel measurement of mediastinal shift in cases of CPAM and its relationship with adverse perinatal outcomes and hydrops. These findings may shape the evaluation and management of CPAMs, improve our understanding of their prognosis, and influence patient counseling.

Congenital Lung Malformations: Unresolved Issues and Unanswered Questions

Advances in prenatal and postnatal diagnosis, perioperative management, and postoperative care have dramatically increased the number of scientific reports on congenital thoracic malformations (CTM). Nearly all CTM are detected prior to birth, generally by antenatal ultrasound. After delivery, most infants do well and remain asymptomatic for a long time. However, complications may occur beyond infancy, including in adolescence and adulthood. Prenatal diagnosis is sometimes missed and detection may occur later, either by chance or because of unexplained recurrent or persistent respiratory symptoms or signs, with difficult implications for family counseling and substantial delay in surgical planning. Although landmark studies have been published, postnatal management of asymptomatic children is still controversial and needs a resolution. Our aim is to provide a focused overview on a number of unresolved issues arising from the lack of an evidence-based consensus on the management of patients with CTM. We summarized findings from current literature, with a particular emphasis on the vigorous controversies on the type and timing of diagnostic procedures, treatments and the still obscure relationship between CTM and malignancies, a matter of great concern for both families and physicians. We also present an algorithm for the assessment and follow-up of CTM detected either in the antenatal or postnatal period. A standardized approach across Europe, based on a multidisciplinary team, is urgently needed for achieving an evidence-based management protocol for CTM.

N° 363 - Évaluation et prise en charge de l'anasarque fœtoplacentaire non immune

OBJECTIF

Décrire les méthodes actuelles d'évaluation et de prise en charge de l'anasarque fœtoplacentaire non immune en mettant l'accent sur les étiologies traitables ou récurrentes. RéSULTATS: Offrir de meilleurs services de conseil et de prise en charge en cas d'anasarque fœtoplacentaire non immune diagnostiquée en période prénatale. DONNéES: La littérature publiée a été récupérée au moyen de recherches menées dans PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, et la Bibliothèque Cochrane en 2017 à l'aide de mots-clés (« non-immune hydrops fetalis », « fetal hydrops », « fetal therapy », « fetal metabolism »). Les articles retenus portaient sur des revues systématiques, des essais cliniques contrôlés, randomisés ou non, des études observationnelles et des études de cas importantes. D'autres publications ont été repérées dans les bibliographies de ces articles. Aucune restriction de date ou de langue n'a été employée. Les recherches ont été mis à jour régulièrement, et les résultats ont été incorporés à la directive clinique jusqu'en septembre 2017. Nous avons également tenu compte de la littérature grise (non publiée) trouvée sur les sites Web d'organismes d'évaluation des technologies de la santé et d'autres organismes liés aux technologies de la santé, dans des collections de directives cliniques et des registres d'essais cliniques, et obtenue auprès d'associations nationales et internationales de médecins spécialistes. AVANTAGES, INCONVéNIENTS ET COûTS: La présente directive clinique renseigne les lecteurs sur les causes de l'anasarque fœtoplacentaire non immune ainsi que sur son évaluation et sa prise en charge. Elle propose également une approche standardisée d'évaluation et de prise en charge, et met l'accent sur la recherche des conditions traitables en période prénatale et des étiologies génétiques récurrentes.

VALEURS

La qualité des données probantes a été évaluée en fonction des critères décrits dans le rapport du Groupe d'étude canadien sur les soins de santé préventifs. RECOMMANDATIONS.

Thoracoscopic Lobectomy for Congenital Lung Lesions

Congenital lung lesions (CLLs) comprise a heterogeneous group of developmental and histologic entities often diagnosed on screening prenatal ultrasound. Most fetuses with CLL are asymptomatic at birth; however, the risk of malignancy and infection drives the decision to prophylactically resect these lesions. The authors describe their approach to minimally invasive lobectomy in children with CLLs, postoperative care, and management of procedure-specific complications.

Treatment of congenital pulmonary airway malformations: a systematic review from the APSA outcomes and evidence based practice committee

PURPOSE

Variation in management characterizes treatment of infants with a congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM). This review addresses six clinically applicable questions using available evidence to provide recommendations for the treatment of these patients.

METHODS

Questions regarding the management of a pediatric patient with a CPAM were generated. English language articles published between 1960 and 2014 were compiled after searching Medline and OvidSP. The articles were divided by subject area and by the question asked, then reviewed and included if they specifically addressed the proposed question.

RESULTS

1040 articles were identified on initial search. After screening abstracts per eligibility criteria, 130 articles were used to answer the proposed questions. Based on the available literature, resection of an asymptomatic CPAM is controversial, and when performed is usually completed within the first six months of life. Lobectomy remains the standard resection method for CPAM, and can be performed thoracoscopically or via thoracotomy. There is no consensus regarding a monitoring protocol for observing asymptomatic lesions, although at least one chest computerized tomogram (CT) should be performed postnatally for lesion characterization. An antenatally identified CPAM can be evaluated with MRI if fetal intervention is being considered, but is not required for the fetus with a lesion not at risk for hydrops. Prenatal consultation should be offered for infants with CPAM and encouraged for those infants in whom characteristics indicate risk of hydrops.

CONCLUSIONS

Very few articles provided definitive recommendations for care of the patient with a CPAM and none reported Level I or II evidence. Based on available information, CPAMs are usually resected early in life if at all. A prenatally diagnosed congenital lung lesion should be evaluated postnatally with CT, and prenatal counseling should be undertaken in patients at risk for hydrops.

Prediction of neonatal respiratory distress in pregnancies complicated by fetal lung masses

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to evaluate the utility of fetal lung mass imaging for predicting neonatal respiratory distress.

METHOD

Pregnancies with fetal lung masses between 2009 and 2014 at a single center were analyzed. Neonatal respiratory distress was defined as intubation and mechanical ventilation at birth, surgery before discharge, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The predictive utility of the initial as well as maximal lung mass volume and congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio by ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was analyzed.

RESULTS

Forty-seven fetal lung mass cases were included; of those, eight (17%) had respiratory distress. The initial US was performed at similar gestational ages in pregnancies with and without respiratory distress (26.4 ± 5.6 vs 22.3 ± 3 weeks, p = 0.09); however, those with respiratory distress had higher congenital volume ratio at that time (1.0 vs 0.3, p = 0.01). The strongest predictors of respiratory distress were maximal volume >24.0 cm³ by MRI (100% sensitivity, 91% specificity, 60% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value) and maximal volume >34.0 cm³ by US (100% sensitivity, 85% specificity, 54% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound and MRI parameters can predict neonatal respiratory distress, even when obtained before 24 weeks. Third trimester parameters demonstrated the best positive predictive value. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Prenatal Diagnosis and Evaluation of Sonographic Predictors for Intervention and Adverse Outcome in Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation

OBJECTIVE

To describe antenatal findings and evaluate prenatal risk parameters for adverse outcome or need for intervention in fetuses with congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM).

METHODS

In our retrospective study all fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of CPAM detected in our tertiary referral center between 2002 and 2013 were analyzed. Sonographic findings were noted and measurements of mass-to-thorax-ratio (MTR), congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume-ratio (CVR) and observed to expected lung-to head-ratio (o/e LHR) were conducted and correlated to fetal or neonatal morbidity and mortality and/or need for prenatal intervention.

RESULTS

67 fetuses with CPAM were included in the study. Hydropic fetuses were observed in 16.4% (11/67) of cases, prenatal intervention was undertaken in 9 cases; 7 pregnancies were terminated. The survival rate of non-hydropic fetuses with conservatively managed CPAM was 98.0% (50/51), the survival rate for hydropic fetuses with intention to treat was 42.9% (3/7). 10 (18.2%) children needed respiratory assistance. Fetuses with a CVR of <0.91 were significantly less likely to experience adverse outcome or need for prenatal intervention with sensitivity, specificity and positive/negative predictive value of 0.89, 0.71, 0.62 and 0.93, respectively. A MTR (mass-to-thorax-ratio) of < 0.51 had a positive predictive value of 0.54 and a negative predictive value of 0.96 of adverse events with a sensitivity of 0.95 and a specificity of 0.63. The negative predictive value for o/e LHR of 45% was 0.84 with sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of 0.73, 0.68 and 0.52, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of cases with CPAM have a favorable outcome. MTR and CVR are able to identify fetuses at risk, the o/e LHR is less sensitive.

Ultrasound assessment of congenital fetal lung masses and neonatal respiratory outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Fetal congenital lung masses generate concern for compromised postnatal respiratory function. Congenital pulmonary adenomatoid malformation volume ratio (CVR) has been used to predict the risk of hydrops fetalis and need for antenatal intervention. This study investigates whether CVR could be used to predict neonatal respiratory outcomes.

METHODS

The ultrasounds of fetuses diagnosed with a lung mass between 2005 and 2013 were reviewed. CVR was calculated at each ultrasound using the formula for a prolate ellipse divided by head circumference. The pregnancy outcome and information about NICU admission for respiratory insufficiency were collected.

RESULTS

Forty-two fetuses were diagnosed with a lung mass during the study period. CVR prior to 24 weeks and between 24 and 32 weeks were associated with NICU admission (p < 0.0001 and <0.008, respectively). CVR increased up to 32 weeks and decreased thereafter for most subjects. The decrease in CVR beyond 32 weeks was larger for cases that required NICU admission (p = 0.002). For a CVR cut-off of <0.5, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity 85.7%, and negative predictive value was 100% for regular nursery care.

CONCLUSION

In pregnancies diagnosed with fetal lung masses, CVR predicted normal respiratory outcomes and need for NICU admission. This information may be helpful for delivery planning. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

In utero resolution of microcystic congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation after prenatal betamethasone therapy: A report of three cases and a literature review

Fetal congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) can progress to nonimmune hydrops, and the mortality rate of CCAM with hydrops is reported to be nearly 100%. We describe three microcystic CCAM cases in which the fetal condition improved after maternal betamethasone therapy. The median gestational age at steroid administration was 23 5/7 weeks' gestation. The CCAM decreased in size in all cases. Our series showed a 100% hydrops resolution rate (2/2) and a 100% survival rate (3/3). Our experience suggests the efficacy of betamethasone treatment on fetuses with microcystic CCAM who have fluid collection or are at risk of developing hydrops.

Pleuropulmonary Blastoma in a Neonate Diagnosed Prenatally as Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation

Pleuropulmonary blastoma is an extremely rare lung neoplasm exclusive to children under 5 years of age. It presents a diagnostic challenge both prenatally and in early childhood due to its similarity to benign lung cysts, which are managed differently. We present the first case, to our knowledge, of a neonate with pleuropulmonary blastoma and myelomeningocele, though prenatally diagnosed as a congenital pulmonary airway malformation. We detail the prenatal imaging that facilitated counseling and delivery management in addition to the correlating postnatal imaging.

Vanishing fetal lung malformations: Prenatal sonographic characteristics and postnatal outcomes

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the natural history and outcomes of prenatally diagnosed lung masses that appear to undergo complete regression before birth.

METHODS

An IRB-approved retrospective review was performed on 100 consecutive fetuses with a congenital lung malformation at a single fetal center. Prenatal and postnatal imaging as well as outcomes of vanishing fetal masses was analyzed and compared to those with persistent fetal masses.

RESULTS

Seventeen lesions (17%) became sonographically undetectable at 35.3 ± 2.3 weeks gestation. Vanishing fetal masses were associated with microcystic disease (100% vs. 69%, p=0.005) and a low initial congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio (CVR; 0.31 ± 0.35 vs. 0.70 ± 0.66, p=0.002) when compared to those with persistent fetal lesions. Based on postnatal CT imaging and pathology data, 10.3% of all fetal masses completely regressed. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value of prenatal ultrasound for detecting lung malformations in late gestation were 96% and 43%, respectively. All infants with vanishing fetal lesions were asymptomatic at birth and were more likely to be managed nonoperatively (75% vs. 22%, p<0.0001) when compared to infants with persistent fetal masses.

CONCLUSIONS

Vanishing lung lesions late in gestation are relatively common and are associated with a low CVR and microcystic disease.

Congenital lung malformations: informing best practice

The management of congenital lung malformations is controversial both in the prenatal and postnatal periods. This article attempts to inform best practice by reviewing the level of evidence with regard to prenatal diagnosis, prognosis, and management and postnatal management, including imaging, surgical indication, surgical approach, and risk of malignancy. We present a series of clinically relevant statements along those topics and analyze the evidence for each. In the end, we make a plea for an adequate description of the lesions, both before and after birth, which will allow future comparisons between management options and the initiation of prospective registries.

Neonatal outcomes of prenatally diagnosed congenital pulmonary malformations

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Congenital pulmonary malformations (CPM) are mostly recognized on prenatal ultrasound scans. In a minority of cases, they may impair breathing at birth. The factors predictive of neonatal respiratory distress are not well defined, but an understanding of these factors is essential for decisions concerning the need for the delivery to take place in a tertiary care center. The aim of this study was to identify potential predictors of respiratory distress in neonates with CPM.

METHODS

We selected cases of prenatal diagnosis of hyperechoic and/or cystic lung lesions from RespiRare, the French prospective multicenter registry for liveborn children with rare respiratory diseases (2008-2013). Prenatal parameters were correlated with neonatal respiratory outcome.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed for 89 children, 22 (25%) of whom had abnormal breathing at birth. Severe respiratory distress, requiring oxygen supplementation or ventilatory support, was observed in 12 neonates (13%). Respiratory distress at birth was significantly associated with the following prenatal parameters: mediastinal shift (P = .0003), polyhydramnios (P = .05), ascites (P = .0005), maximum prenatal malformation area (P = .001), and maximum congenital pulmonary malformation volume ratio (CVR) (P = .001). Severe respiratory distress, requiring oxygen at birth, was best predicted by polyhydramnios, ascites, or a CVR >0.84.

CONCLUSIONS

CVR >0.84, polyhydramnios, and ascites increased the risk of respiratory complications at birth in fetuses with CPM, and especially of severe respiratory distress, requiring oxygen supplementation or more intensive intervention. In such situations, the delivery should take place in a tertiary care center.

Comparison between US and MRI in the prenatal assessment of lung malformations

BACKGROUND

The contribution of MRI in the prenatal evaluation of congenital lung abnormalities (CLA) has not been extensively investigated.

OBJECTIVE

(1) To compare diagnostic accuracy and assessment of prognostic factors between US and MRI in CLA and (2) to assess the diagnosis agreement between prenatal imaging and postnatal diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 23 consecutive fetuses who underwent concomitant US and MRI during gestation as well as postnatal CT and surgery (n = 22).

RESULTS

US-MRI sets were performed at median gestational age of 26 (n = 16) and 34 (n = 22) weeks. Postnatal diagnoses were 11 congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAM), 4 bronchopulmonary sequestrations (BPS), 6 hybrid lesions and 2 cysts. US and MRI agreement was significantly better during the second trimester than during the third one (P = 0.02). Disagreements were related to missed cysts (n = 5), mediastinal shift (n = 6) and vessels (n = 5). US and MRI diagnosis agreement was present in 20 cases, including 5 cases of misdiagnosis. US and MRI were concordant with postnatal diagnosis in 17 and 16 cases, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In our series, no clear superiority of MRI over US in the prenatal evaluation of CLA was demonstrated, but US better demonstrated systemic feeding vessels and MRI cysts and normal lung adjacent to the lesion.

Fetal lung lesions: can we start to breathe easier?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a simple and accurate approach for risk stratification of fetal lung lesions that are associated with respiratory compromise at birth.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective review of 64 prenatal lung lesions that were managed at a single fetal care referral center (2001-2011). Sonographic data were analyzed and correlated with perinatal outcomes.

RESULTS

Hydrops occurred in only 4 cases (6.3%). Among fetuses without hydrops, the congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio (CVR) was the only variable that was associated significantly with respiratory compromise and the need for lung resection at birth (P < .01). Based on a maximum CVR >1.0, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for respiratory morbidity were 90%, 93%, 75%, and 98%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Nonhydropic fetuses with a maximum CVR >1.0 are a subgroup of patients who are at increased risk for respiratory morbidity and the need for surgical intervention. These patients should be delivered at a tertiary care center with pediatric surgery expertise to ensure optimal clinical outcomes.