A case of stillbirth due to extensive infarction in the basal layer of the placenta diagnosed by prenatal ultrasonography

Abstract

Placental infarction is a localized area of ischemic villous necrosis, resulting from interruption in maternal blood supply. These have been associated with postterm pregnancies, maternal hypertension, and anticardiolipin antibodies. Most are due to thrombotic occlusion of an uteroplacental artery. But, infarction in the basal layer of the placenta is very rare and characterized histologically by massive deposition of fibrin. The etiology remains uncertain. However, it has clearly associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality including stillbirth, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction. This condition has been diagnosed by prenatal ultrasonography with hyperechoic areas along the maternal side, but extending through much of the placental tissue. Recently we have experienced a case of extensive infarction in the basal layer of the placenta diagnosed by prenatal ultrasonography at 17 weeks, resulted in stillbirth. We describe this case with a brief review of the literature.Keywords: Infarction in the basal layer of the placenta, Stillbirth