Cantrell's Pentalogy in Twins: Prenatal Diagnosis

Abstract

T he combination of an onphalocele, an anterior thoracic wall defect and an anterior diaphrag-matic defect constitutes classical Cantrell's pentalogy. We present a case of Cantrell's pentalogy diagnosed prenataly in twins with conventional and three-dimensional sonography.

Prenatal diagnosis of Pentalogy of Cantrell in the first trimester: Is 3‐dimensional sonography needed?

“…Recently, various reports discussed the role of 3D sonography and fetal MRI on Pentalogy of Cantrell assessment. 2,4,6,[9][10][11] Although there is some agreement that 3D sonography provides additional information for fetuses with abdominal wall defects 4,11,12 and Pentalogy of Cantrell, 2,11 the application of this tool is not necessary for diagnostic purposes in most cases. Early prenatal diagnosis of Pentalogy of Cantrell is enabled by the existence of ectopia cordis and omphalocele, 3 and 2D sonography with Doppler imaging can clearly demonstrate these defects.…”

“…2 This syndrome consists of a supraumbilical wall defect, a defect of the lower sternum, a deficiency of the anterior diaphragm, a defect of the diaphragmatic pericardium, and various intracardiac defects. 3,4 The expression of these defects are variable, and the prognosis depends on the severity of the lesions. 2 However, generally, Pentalogy of Cantrell with ectopia cordis has a very high perinatal mortality rate, 3 characterizing the importance of its differentiation from other abdominal wall defects.…”