This Article Full Text Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in PubMed Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Vettraino, I. M. Articles by Comstock, C. H. Search for Related Content PubMed PubMed Citation Articles by Vettraino, I. M. Articles by Comstock, C. H.

The Evolving Appearance of a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Imaging, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Ivana M. Vettraino, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Imaging, William Beaumont Hospital, 3601 W Thirteen Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48073-6769.

Objective. The prenatal differentiation of a fetal congenital diaphragmatic hernia from other echogenic chest masses can be difficult. The implications of the leading diagnosis can greatly affect the neonatal prognosis. The cases presented illustrate how the primary diagnosis of a fetal chest mass can change during the course of gestation as the appearance of the chest mass evolves. Methods. A descriptive analysis of 2 cases reviewed the importance of considering multiple causes of an echogenic chest mass. Results. The sonographic features of a congenital diaphragmatic hernia that have been described in the literature were not always present at the time of initial evaluation. Conclusions. A congenital diaphragmatic hernia should be part of the differential diagnosis considered during consultation with parents whose fetus has an echogenic chest mass.

Key Words: congenital diaphragmatic hernia • fetal chest mass • prenatal diagnosis

Abbreviations: CCAM, congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation • CDH, congenital diaphragmatic hernia