Sonographic Diagnosis of Caudal Regression Syndrome

Abstract

Caudal regression syndrome is a partial or complete agenesis of the lumbosacral vertebrae. Other abnormalities may be associated, such as polyhydramnios, single umbilical artery, club feet, and renal, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary defects. This report of caudal regression syndrome is about a woman in her mid-20s who was first seen for a routine obstetrical sonogram in her second trimester. Her last menstrual period was unknown. She had no history of diabetes, and her glycemia was normal. Sonographic examination showed a 27-week singleton fetus with polyhydramnios, club feet, multicystic kidneys, sudden termination of the spine at the sacral level, short femurs, a single umbilical artery, and a cystic umbilical cord with excessive Wharton’s jelly. These findings confirmed the diagnosis of caudal regression syndrome. After counseling, the patient elected for termination of the pregnancy and delivered a female fetus with an imperforate anus at 800 grams in weight. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the fetus confirmed the sacral agenesis.