Body wall defects and amniotic band syndrome in pig (Sus scrofa domesticus)

Abstract

The amniotic band syndrome is a congenital condition. It is characterized by the presence of fibrous amniotic bands that may entangle or entrap different foetal parts in utero, resulting in deformation, malformation or disruption. We report on a female piglet presenting amniotic band adherences in the right abdominal flank, several body wall defects (gastroschisis, abdominoschisis with omphalocele), severe scoliosis, anomalous umbilical cord with single umbilical artery, anal atresia, anomalous liver and absent gall bladder, hypoplastic genitalia, ankylosis and arthrogryposis in pelvic limbs, and bilateral patellar agenesia. The ethiopatogenia is discussed, as well as the comparative and embryological implications.

Keywords: amniotic band syndrome; body wall defect; congenital malformation; pig.