Prenatal diagnosis of ectopia cordis in a twin fetus

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2018 Oct;298(4):841-842. doi: 10.1007/s00404-018-4879-1. Epub 2018 Aug 25.

Abstract

We report images of the 7th case worldwide of a twin fetus with a complete isolated ectopia cordis in a dichorionic diamniotic twin gestation. There is no consanguinity, family history of abnormalities, IVF, or first trimester medication. The diagnosis of this isolated anomaly was done at 23 weeks in one fetus, while the other had normal morphology; the pregnancy was complicated by preterm labor and a cesarean delivery followed at 34 weeks. The affected baby weighed 1800 g and had an outcome complicated by episodes of desaturation and deceased at day 8. Parents did not wish either in utero termination of pregnancy or postnatal surgery for reintegration in the thorax and chose instead palliative care.

Keywords: Ectopia cordis; Fetal; Management; Twins; Ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diseases in Twins / diagnosis*
  • Ectopia Cordis / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis*