Prenatal Diagnosis of Bladder Exstrophy

Bladder exstrophy is a rare congenital abnormality where the urinary bladder, anterior pelvis, and genitalia fail to close in the midline, resulting in the bladder being located externally along the anterior pelvic wall. The incidence is 1 per 40 000 live births and has a male predominance. Common prenatal sonographic findings include an absent urinary bladder, normal amniotic fluid, and an inferior abdominal mass. The absence of the bladder in the second trimester with normal amniotic fluid volumes should prompt evaluation for this abnormality. Advances in ultrasound technology including the use of 3D and 4D imaging have led to an increase in prenatal diagnosis of this condition. The earlier diagnosis has aided in delivery at an appropriate center and timely surgical planning, allowing for a better outcome.

Source: Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography - March 17, 2014 Category: Radiology Authors: Wolniakowski, A., Szlachetka, K., Thornburg, L. L. Tags: Case Studies Source Type: research