Scoping Review of the Prenatal Diagnosis of Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum

The challenges for patients and sonographers when complex obstetric anomalies are identified

“…While ACC is a neurological anomaly classified by the absence or underdevelopment of the corpus callosum (CC), the definitions of the terms such as complete or partial agenesis, dysgenesis, dysplasia, hypoplasia and hypogenesis overlap or conflict between reports, which increases the ambiguity within the diagnosis. 2,3 ACC is challenging to diagnose prenatally using ultrasound. Direct non-visualisation of the CC is only possible on a midsagittal view of the fetal brain, which is not a screening view typically included in morphology scan protocols as per international guidelines.…”

“…11 Further investigations may delineate whether the ACC is isolated or complex which may provide specific prognostic information. 2,11 The neurodevelopmental outcomes after a prenatal diagnosis of ACC vary from typical development through to disability with high support needs, and less frequent fetal or neonatal demise. 2 With a broad spectrum of outcomes and further investigations warranted, the communication of a suspected ACC finding to expectant parents is likely to be difficult and stressful for the sonographer.…”

“…2,11 The neurodevelopmental outcomes after a prenatal diagnosis of ACC vary from typical development through to disability with high support needs, and less frequent fetal or neonatal demise. 2 With a broad spectrum of outcomes and further investigations warranted, the communication of a suspected ACC finding to expectant parents is likely to be difficult and stressful for the sonographer. Similarly, receiving unexpected news can be traumatic for expectant parents, and their experience of prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy may be influenced by the initial communication.…”

“…Agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) is one such anomaly, which is particularly complex due to variations of terminology, sonographic appearances and prognosis. While ACC is a neurological anomaly classified by the absence or underdevelopment of the corpus callosum (CC), the definitions of the terms such as complete or partial agenesis, dysgenesis, dysplasia, hypoplasia and hypogenesis overlap or conflict between reports, which increases the ambiguity within the diagnosis 2,3 …”

“…The suspicion of ACC during a morphology scan warrants tertiary referral for further investigation 11 . Further investigations may delineate whether the ACC is isolated or complex which may provide specific prognostic information 2,11 …”