Further studies on a fetal pigment

Abstract

but evacuated with ease. The postoperative course was uneventful. The incidence of abdominocyesis has been reported as 1: 16,000 to 1: 3000 (Eastman and Hellman). The maternal mortality rate is approximately 15 per cent; the fetal mortality rate is about 85 per cent. Fetal deformities have been reported ranging from 35 to 75 per cent.l Early diagnosis of abdominocyesis is facilitated by roentgenological examinations. The plain fdm may show malposition of the fetus, clear fetal parts, maternal intestinal shadows intermingled with fetal parts, and lack of a uterine wall surrounding the fetus.2 Amniocentesis is useful in evaluating the condition of the fetus. Injection of dye at the time of amniocentesis may outline an amniotic cavity and the fetus and thus lead to a diagn0sis.s Continued postpartum hormonal activity in the retained intra-abdominal placenta may signify failure of involution of the placenta and placental vessels and may be well demonstrated on angiography.4 A hysterosalpingogram demonstrating an empty uterus may help prove a case of abdominocyesias Angiography can show abnormal tumoral vasculature such as a chorioepithelioma or a carcinoma. As in our case, the localization of a retained placenta and the differentiation from a malignancy can be achieved.6 Arteriography demonstrates a placental site in the abdomen where the ipsilateral uterine and ovarian arteries become increased in size and tortuous. Frequently the placenta is outlined by the dye. There is lack of participation of the uterine artery on the uninvolved side. Visualization of the placental sinuses and the outline of the venous drainage further confirm the presence of a placenta.