Congenital Central Nervous System Malformations: A Rare Case of an Encephalocele and Literature Review of Its Associations, Imaging Modalities, Radiological Findings, and Treatments.

Bala C Veerabathini,Ayesha Hussain,Kaushik Manthani

doi:10.7759/cureus.15959

Abstract

Congenital central nervous system (CNS) malformations are relatively rare conditions present in fetuses that may result in intrauterine fetal deaths (IUFDs). We report a case of a 42-year-old female who presented at 29 weeks gestation with lack of a fetal heart beat likely due to a congenital malformation resulting in IUFD. This case report and literature review provides a better understanding of the encephalocele as a harbinger for IUFD.

Highlights

In the United States between 2015 and 2017, the fetal mortality rate was 587.6 fetal deaths per 100,000 live births
Some 10.8% of the fetal deaths were attributed to congenital malformations, 13.9% of the fetal deaths were due to maternal complications, 26.5% of fetal deaths were due to placenta, cords and membrane complications, 9.6% were due to maternal conditions unrelated to pregnancy, and 39.2% were due to all other/unspecified causes
The spalding sign is present in fetuses that have resulted in intrauterine fetal deaths (IUFDs)

Summary

Introduction

In the United States between 2015 and 2017, the fetal mortality rate was 587.6 fetal deaths per 100,000 live births. The neural tube is a narrow channel in the fetus in which the brain and spinal cord form It folds and closes in the third or fourth week of pregnancy. Of note, she did not have any routine prenatal care and did not take any medications including prenatal vitamins during her pregnancy. Posterior aspect of the skull is depicted on the left side of the image The patient stated she last felt fetal movements the day prior.

Discussion

Findings

Conclusions

Disclosures