Abstract | OBJECTIVE: To develop an algorithm for the prenatal management of patients when a cystic hygroma is diagnosed by ultrasonography. METHODS: We report a personal series of 25 cases diagnosed between 10 and 23 weeks gestation and a review of the literature comprising a total of 999 cases. We focused on the etiologies and the value of various prognostic factors in the management of cystic hygromas. These include karyotype, alpha-fetoprotein levels, sonographic findings in the fetus and within the hygroma itself, and natural history. RESULTS: CONCLUSION: The prognostic factors associated with a poor outcome are an abnormal karyotype and associated structural malformations. Resolution of the hygroma by 20 weeks gestation suggests a good prognosis, but is not definitive. All other factors evaluated do not appear to be of prognostic value at this time. Careful analysis of these prognostic factors is very important to identify the small percentage of normal children and to advise parents effectively for a future pregnancy.
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Authors | P Descamps, O Jourdain, C Paillet, A Toutain, A Guichet, D Pourcelot, F Gold, M Castiel, G Body |
Journal | European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology
(Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol)
Vol. 71
Issue 1
Pg. 3-10
(Jan 1997)
ISSN: 0301-2115 [Print] Ireland |
PMID | 9031953
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Review)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adult
- Chromosome Aberrations
- Congenital Abnormalities
- Female
- Gestational Age
- Head and Neck Neoplasms
(diagnosis, etiology, therapy)
- Humans
- Karyotyping
- Lymphangioma, Cystic
(diagnosis, etiology, therapy)
- Pregnancy
- Prognosis
- Ultrasonography, Prenatal
- alpha-Fetoproteins
(analysis)
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