DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF A CASE OF BILATERAL CYSTIC SWELLING OF NECK IN AN ABORTED FETUS

Objective: To analyse the anatomical and radiological observations in a fetus with bilateral cystic swelling of neck. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 aborted fetuses were studied for academic purpose ranging from age 12 weeks to 36 weeks. A male aborted fetus of 24 weeks with huge swelling in cervicothoracic region was investigated by radiological and ultrasonographic examination. A detailed foetal autopsy was conducted for associated anomalies. Observation: A huge cystic swelling was observed in the posterior region of neck and upper thorax with mandibulo facial defect. About 1.2cm defect was noted in occipital bone with herniation of echogenic brain contents and hypoechoic collection in to the occipital region. Conclusion: Prenatal diagnosis of Cystic hygroma and Encephalocele can be made from 9th week onwards, which will be helpful for planning delivery or to deal with neonatal complications.