Sonographic Detection of Fetal and Neonatal Intrathoracic and Pulmonary Abnormalities

Abstract

STUDENT EXCELLENCE LITERATURE REVIEWHigh resolution ultrasound has allowed increased definition and detailed study of the fetal thorax. From the second trimester, congenital anomalies arising from or involving the fetal chest can be visualized. Early detection and diagnosis of fetal intrathoracic abnormalities are rapidly becoming an integral part of modern obstetrical care and neonatal management. The potential exists to diagnose most intrathoracic anomalies before the 20th week of pregnancy.Although multiple fetal anomalies may be present, fetal lung condition can be a major determinant of fetal viability. Early sonographic detection and assessment of fetal thoracic anomalies are vital for the proper management of pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal treatment. The pleural, pericardial, and. peritoneal cavities are distinct by the second and third trimesters allowing in utero sonographic diagnosis of many pulmonary structural and functional conditions that influence fetal survivability and neonatal outcome.Pulmonary hypoplasia, pleural effusion, cystic adenomatoid malformation, pulmonary sequestra-

Sonographic Appearance of Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformations

“…Polyhydramnios without hydrops may also result from esophageal compression by the lesion. 6,7 Fetal prognosis depends largely on the presence of polyhydramnios, hydrops, and pulmonary hypoplasia. 8 The CPAM may seem to disappear completely by sonographic evaluation by 32 weeks, as the lesion usually becomes isoechoic to the normal lung tissue.…”