Serial fetal magnetic resonance imaging of cloacal exstrophy

Jpn J Radiol. 2011 Nov;29(9):656-9. doi: 10.1007/s11604-011-0600-z. Epub 2011 Sep 29.

Abstract

Cloacal exstrophy (CE) is a rare congenital malformation involving the urinary, intestinal, and genital systems. We present a case of CE in which characteristic findings were detected at two serial fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sessions. At 18 weeks' gestation, the initial fetal MRI revealed a cystic mass protruding from the infra-umbilical abdominal wall. During fetal development, the cystic mass disappeared, and an omphalocele and heterogeneous soft tissue mass were recognized at 28 weeks' gestation. The bladder was not visualized on either examination. CE can be diagnosed by prenatal MRI, thereby permitting prenatal counseling and appropriate postnatal management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section
  • Cloaca / abnormalities*
  • Congenital Abnormalities / diagnosis*
  • Congenital Abnormalities / embryology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Karyotyping
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Prenatal Diagnosis