Prenatal MRI of fetal abdominal cystic lymphangioma, additional value to US findings

Full text: Introduction: Lymphangiomas are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system with the possibility for the adjacent structures infiltration. What you will learn: This is a case study of a woman in 31-st weeks pregnant referred to MR examinations of the fetus with preliminary diagnosis hepatoblastoma. In prenatal ultrasound examination a multilocular hypoechogenic cystic formation in the abdomen, interpreted as hepatoblastoma was displayed. The termination of pregnancy is recommended. Subsequent prenatal MR examinations of the fetus, provides a detailed assessment of the location and distribution of the process and the final diagnosis of fetal abdominal cystic lymphangioma. The patient was referred for postnatal follow-up of the finding. Discussion: Cystic lymphangioma are rare conditions observed in 1: 6000 pregnancies, but they are relatively frequent anomaly in abortive fetuses with a frequency of 1:875. Their localization into the abdomen is relatively rare. Survival is proportional to the normal karyotype, atypical location and in cases of a reversal progress of the process. Conclusion: Prenatal MR examinations can confirm, supplement or change the ultrasound findings, as presented in the rare case of abdominal cystic lymphangioma. The method helps to assess the process dissemination and relationship to adjacent organs and structures