Prenatally diagnosed fetal tumors of the head and neck: a systematic review with antenatal and postnatal outcomes over the past 20 years

Abstract

Fetal tumors of the head and neck are rare congenital malformations. Two-dimensional ultrasound is diagnostic in almost all cases; however, MRI may be an important diagnostic adjunct in targeted cases and help patient selection for immediate intubation at the time of delivery. EXIT procedure and surgical removal of the tumor was associated with good prognosis.

Improving prenatal detection of abdominal supraumbilical anomalies: The sonographic examination of fetal anechoic spaces of upper abdomen revisited

“…In the vast majority of cases, the underlying condition for a non‐visualized stomach was evident (e.g., renal anomalies associated with severe oligohydramnios/anhydramnios). Similarly, the non‐visualized stomach can be easily explained in cases of orofacial/neck/thoracic tumors in which a patent but compressed esophagus impaired the swallowing process 13–15 …”

“…Similarly, the non-visualized stomach can be easily explained in cases of orofacial/neck/thoracic tumors in which a patent but compressed esophagus impaired the swallowing process. [13][14][15] A more difficult diagnosis to make is esophageal atresia, a condition characterized by an absent portion of the esophagus resulting in the proximal segment being disconnected from the distal segment. 16 This anomaly can be isolated or associated with a tracheoesophageal fistula and prenatally is characterized by an absent or small stomach and polyhydramnios.…”

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in evaluation of atypical case of craniopharyngioma

“…Tumors of the fetal neck and head are rare congenital malformations and their prenatal diagnosis is important for planning perinatal management. Of the fetal neck and head tumors, only 3.2% are brain tumors, mostly represented by glioma and neuroblastoma 1 . In children, craniopharyngioma is the most common tumor occurring in the parasellar region.…”

Pediatric vascular anomalies with airway compromise

“…Fetal neck masses responsible for a CHAOS always require an EXIT procedure to secure the airway before any consideration of etiologic treatment. Lymphatic malformation (LM) is the most frequent neck mass diagnosed in utero, followed by teratoma 16 . An EXIT procedure should be restricted to selected cases to avoid unnecessary maternal and fetal risks 17 .…”

“…Lymphatic malformation (LM) is the most frequent neck mass diagnosed in utero, followed by teratoma. 16 An EXIT procedure should be restricted to selected cases to avoid unnecessary maternal and fetal risks. 17 Because most vascular anomalies are soft and/or compressible, CHAOS is unlikely, and most patients can be intubated through laryngoscopy or rigid bronchoscopy at birth.…”