Prenatal diagnosis of fetal nuchal cystic hygroma in 22 cases

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the early diagnosis and prognosis of fetal nuchal cystic hygroma. METHODS: 72 cases of fetal nuchal cystic hygroma diagnosed in uterus were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: Most of the cases were diagnosed by B ultrasound between 15-26 gestational weeks. 55.9% the multipara had abnormal pregnant history, and 40% (4/10) of fetuses with karyotype performed had chrosome abnormality. Except for fetal deaths and induced abortions, 3 cases had term deliveries: one neonatal death, one was born with hygroma of 5.9 cm x 3.7 cm and transferred for surgery, and the other one with hygroma disappeared at the 37th week and baby was born at 40 week with normal appearance. CONCLUSIONS: This disease is one of common fetal morphological abnormalities. Few may recover spontaneously but most have poor outcomes.