Husen M, Schut PC, Neven ACH, Yousoufi N, de Graaf N, Sloots CEJ, Eggink AJ, Cohen-Overbeek TE. Differences in Origin and Outcome of Intra-Abdominal Cysts in Male and Female Fetuses.
Fetal Diagn Ther 2019;
46:166-174. [PMID:
30630186 DOI:
10.1159/000495506]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the origin and outcome in a cohort of male and female fetuses with intra-abdominal cysts, in order to provide recommendations on management and to improve prenatal counselling.
METHODS
From 2002 to 2016, intra-abdominal cysts were detected by ultrasound in 158 fetuses. Cases with an umbilical vein varix were excluded. Fetal, neonatal, and maternal characteristics were retrieved from electronic patient files.
RESULTS
In female fetuses (n = 114), intra-abdominal cysts were diagnosed at a later gestational age compared with male fetuses (n = 44) (median 32.0 vs. 21.5 weeks, p < 0.001). The maximum prenatal cyst diameter was larger in female fetuses (median 35 vs. 17 mm, p < 0.001). Associated anomalies were less frequent in females (n = 15, 13.2%) compared with males (n = 15, 34.1%). In females (n = 114), most cysts were of ovarian origin (n = 81, 71.1%). Surgery was performed in 30 (26.3%) female and 15 (34.1%) male neonates (p = 0.33). Anorectal malformations were present in 6 cases and often not recognized prenatally.
CONCLUSIONS
The differences in the origin of intra-abdominal cysts between male and female fetuses, resulting in differences in prenatal presentation and postnatal outcome should be taken into account in prenatal counseling within a multidisciplinary team. Evaluation of the fetal perianal muscular complex is indicated.
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