Fetal ascites and hydrometrocolpos due to persistent urogenital sinus and cloaca: a rare congenital anomaly and review of literature

BMJ Case Rep. 2014 Feb 19:2014:bcr2013202231. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-202231.

Abstract

Fetal ascites can occur due to many heterogeneous disorders. Its association with hydrometrocolpos because of persistent urogenital sinus and cloaca is extremely rare. A 29-year-old primigravida presented at 32 weeks of gestation with ultrasonographic evidence of fetal ascites, a cystic pelvic mass, hydronephrosis and oligohydramnios. Fetal ascites in this case was due to fetal urine draining through fallopian tubes into the abdomen as a result of vesicovaginal fistula and distal vaginal atresia. The antenatal ultrasound results along with autopsy findings are discussed. Though rare, a persistent urogenital sinus is to be suspected in isolated fetal ascites cases where the viral tests are negative and there is no evidence of cardiac anomalies as this is a treatable anomaly if diagnosed at early gestational age.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / diagnostic imaging*
  • Adult
  • Ascites / congenital
  • Ascites / diagnostic imaging*
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Hydrocolpos / congenital
  • Hydrocolpos / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung / abnormalities*
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Oligohydramnios / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Third
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal
  • Urogenital Abnormalities / diagnostic imaging
  • Vagina / abnormalities
  • Vagina / diagnostic imaging*
  • Vesicovaginal Fistula / congenital
  • Vesicovaginal Fistula / diagnostic imaging*

Supplementary concepts

  • Lung agenesis