We report two cases of pentalogy of Cantrell diagnosed in utero using a combination of fetal echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging. The cardiac component consisted of tetralogy of Fallot in the first fetus and ventricular septal defect in the second fetus. Whereas fetal echocardiography allowed accurate delineation of the cardiac anatomy, prenatal magnetic resonance imaging allowed clearer delineation of the extent of the thoracic and abdominal wall defects. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging in conjunction with prenatal echocardiography allows optimal assessment of the fetus with ectopia cordis, which has significant implications from the standpoint of preoperative planning and providing prognostic information. This report represents the first description of applying magnetic resonance imaging in combination with echocardiography toward a better understanding of this clinical entity in the fetus.

Fetal ultrasonography is an important tool used to prenatally diagnose many craniofacial conditions. Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a rare congenital deformation characterized by micrognathia, glossoptosis, and airway obstruction. PRS can present as a perinatal emergency when the retropositioned tongue obstructs the airway leading to respiratory compromise. More predictable and reliable diagnostic studies could help the treating medical team as well as families prepare for these early airway emergencies. The medical literature was reviewed for different techniques used to prenatally diagnose PRS radiologically. We have reviewed these techniques and suggested a possible diagnostic pathway to consistently identify patients with PRS prenatally.

No abstract

Needle core biopsy appears to have a low rate of associated complications, and its sensitivity for diagnosing PC and follicular neoplasm is comparable to what has been reported for fine needle aspiration biopsy in a similar patient population.