Ventriculomegaly

Abstract

Fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly (VM) is defined as an enlargement of the lateral ventricles of the developing fetal brain. It is diagnosed when the width of one or both lateral ventricles, measured at the level of the atrium, is ≥10 mm. Ventriculomegaly is defined as mild when the atrial width is 10 to 12 mm, moderate 12.1 to 15 mm, and severe >15 mm. It can be isolated, but often is a sign of different pathological conditions. Since the prognosis in cases of VM depends mainly on the associated anomalies, a careful examination of the fetus, particularly of the brain, is mandatory. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be a useful diagnostic tool complementary to ultrasound in order to recognize subtle brain anomalies, such as neuronal migration and proliferation disorders. In this review article, the diagnostic workup, the counseling, and the outcome of fetal VM are discussed.