Spectrum and outcome of prenatally diagnosed fetal tumors

Congenital and gynaecological tumors: A review

Congenital tumors are rare, and malignant congenital tumors are uncommon. Benign tu,mors might be life-threatening, depending on the location and size of the tumor. Different factors affect congenital tumors, such as maternal and placental hormones and environmental factors such as drugs, radiation, and infection. Developing fetal imaging methods and continuous follow-up during pregnancy are important factors in congenital tumor prognosis. Ultrasound is the most common method used for fetal evaluation. The complementary evaluation method is MRI. Both methods are helpful and widely spread for the detection of congenital tumors. These imaging methods help the medical team make a suitable decision about therapy. Some of these tumors regressed spontaneously, and some need surgical treatments. Treatment of tumors has developed rapidly, and recently molecular-targeted drugs have been used.

Intrapericardial Teratoma and Associated 3q29 Deletion in a Fetus: Case Report

Depending on its location, size, and proximity to the cardiac structures, an intrapericardial teratoma may lead to severe circulatory disturbances and even fetal demise. A 34-year-old G2P1 presented at 20w5d with a solid cystic mass in the right thorax of the fetus, originating from the right atrium or lung, with signs of non-immune fetal hydrops, soon resulting in intrauterine fetal death. Detailed post-mortem autopsy revealed signs of hydrops fetalis universalis due to a spherical tumor mass originating from the aortic root. Histologic examination of the tumor showed the characteristic morphology of a teratoma. A 1.6-Mb microdeletion at 3q29 was identified by single nucleotide polymorphism array. This is the first report presenting the diagnosis of an intrapericardial teratoma in a fetus with a microdeletion of 3q29. Intrapericardial teratoma has a poor prognosis and the fetal outcome relies on the development of hydrops. A post-mortem examination is essential in order to make a definitive diagnosis, which underlines the status of the fetal pathologist and the need for interdisciplinary cooperation.

Prenatal ultrasound evaluation of fetal cutaneous hemangioma and related complications

OBJECTIVES

Congenital hemangiomas are rare benign vascular tumors but can lead to serious adverse pregnancy outcomes. Its prenatal diagnosis is a challenge. We explored the clinical applications of prenatal ultrasound for evaluating fetal cutaneous hemangioma and associated complications.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted comprising a population of pregnant women with fetal cutaneous hemangioma, the latter diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound, between January 2016 and December 2020. The clinical characteristics, sonographic images, complications, and pregnancy outcomes were documented and analyzed.

RESULTS

We identified 20 cases of fetal cutaneous hemangioma diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound and confirmed by postpartum examinations. Most hemangiomas were in the head and neck (55%), with either solid isoechoicity (25%) or solid mildly hyperechoic (25%), and well-circumscribed (80%) mass. Eight (40%) fetuses experienced complications, which often occurred in fetuses with large hemangiomas (67% with maximum diameter ≥5 cm; 100% with a volume ≥40 cm³). The most common complications were cardiac-related (88%), including elevated cardiothoracic area ratio, atrioventricular valve regurgitation, and fetal hydrops. A large hemangioma was usually associated with advanced gestational age and a fast hemangioma growth rate. In five (25%) cases, the pregnancy was terminated; these involved hemangioma of the head or neck. One newborn developed Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon, pulmonary hemorrhage and respiratory distress, and died 3 days after birth. Among the 14 (70%) fetuses that survived birth, all hemangiomas disappeared or regressed after treatments with propranolol, interventional surgery, or observed routinely.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal ultrasound examination can accurately diagnose fetal cutaneous hemangioma and related complications to facilitate appropriate management during the pregnancy.

RATIONALE

Prenatal diagnosis of cutaneous hemangiomas is a clinical challenge. Prenatal ultrasound examination could be a method to accurately diagnose and monitor these hemangiomas.

Prenatal diagnosis of fetal defects and its implications on the delivery mode

Congenital malformations are defined as single or multiple defects of the morphogenesis of organs or body parts, identifiable during intrauterine life or at birth. With recent advances in prenatal detection of congenital malformations, many of these disorders can be identified early on a routine fetal ultrasound. The aim of the present systematic review is to systematize the current knowledge about the mode of delivery in pregnancies complicated by fetal anomalies. The databases Medline and Ebsco were searched from 2002 to 2022. The inclusion criteria were prenatally diagnosed fetal malformation, singleton pregnancy, and known delivery mode. After the first round of research, 546 studies were found. For further analysis, studies with full text available concerning human single pregnancy with known neonatal outcomes were considered. Publications were divided into six groups: congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, gastroschisis, fetal tumors, microcephaly, and lung and thorax malformations. Eighteen articles with a descripted delivery mode and neonatal outcome were chosen for further analysis. In most pregnancies complicated by the presence of fetal anomalies, spontaneous vaginal delivery should be a primary option, as it is associated with lower maternal morbidity and mortality. Cesarean delivery is generally indicated if a fetal anomaly is associated with the risk of dystocia, bleeding, or disruption of a protective sac; examples of such anomalies include giant omphaloceles, severe hydrocephalus, and large myelomeningocele and teratomas. Fetal anatomy ultrasound should be carried out early, leaving enough time to familiarize parents with all available options, including pregnancy termination, if an anomaly is detected.

Outcomes of antenatally diagnosed fetal cardiac tumors: a 10-year experience at a single tertiary referral center

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical and perinatal outcomes along with ultrasonographic characteristics of fetuses with a cardiac tumor.

METHODS

The data were obtained retrospectively between January 2010 and December 2019 in a tertiary referral center. The Cardiovascular Profile Score (CVPS) was used for the diagnosis of heart failure. Clinical outcomes of the cases identified in the postnatal period were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fourteen cases were evaluated with the fetal cardiac tumor. One case made the decision to terminate the pregnancy. Perinatal death was seen in 4 (30.7 %) cases out of 13 cases. In 3/14 (21.4%) cases, a solitary cardiac tumor was found while multiple cardiac tumors were found in 11/14 (78.6%) cases. All living cases 9/9 (100%) had the diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). When the cases which survived were compared with the cases which died during the prenatal period, a significant difference in tumors' biggest diameters (16.44 ± 5.12 mm vs. 32.25 ± 9.28 mm; p: .011, respectively) was found. No statistically significant difference was found in the number of the tumor(s) and heart failure.

CONCLUSION

Fetal cardiac tumors can have serious perinatal mortality. The cardiac tumor size was found to be associated with perinatal mortality. The survival is not different between the cases with solitary and multiple tumors and those with and without congestive heart failure.

Fetal Pancreatic Hamartoma Associated with Hepatoblastoma-An Unusual Tumor Association

Abdominal tumor masses are a very rare disease in the fetus. The authors present the first reported case of neonatal multicystic adenomatoid hamartoma of the pancreas associated with well-differentiated fetal epithelial subtype hepatoblastoma and reveal clinical, histologic, and imagistic aspects. Case presentation: A 36-week-old female newborn in whom a 25-week ultrasound showed a relatively homogeneous pancreatic echogenic mass (34 × 30 × 55 mm) with compression of the inferior vena cava and retrograde dilation. Postnatal CT showed a giant pancreatic tumor mass (113 × 70 × 60 mm), with areas enhancing contrast and cystic/necrotic areas and a hypodense, hypocaptive nodule of 8 × 6 mm located at segment IV of the liver; thrombosis of the subhepatic segment of the inferior vena cava and both renal veins. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies confirmed the diagnosis of multicystic pancreatic adenomatoid hamartoma and well-differentiated fetal epithelial subtype hepatoblastoma. Conclusions: Pancreatic hamartoma can be difficult to diagnose (especially prenatal), with or without nonspecific symptoms. The synchronous presence of hepatoblastoma complicated the therapeutic conduct and prognosis of this case, with the diagnosis being confirmed histopathologically and immunohistochemically after liver biopsy.

[Fetal mediastinal teratomas. Report of two cases]

Teratomas are one of the most common tumors diagnosed in fetuses and newborns. In this age group, extragonadal teratomas predominate, among which the mediastinum ones accounts for up to 15% of teratomas of the perinatal period. They may be associated with the thymus or thyroid gland; in some cases a clear connection with adjacent organs cannot be identified. Teratomas of the heart, also localized in the mediastinum, are often considered separately from the mediastinal ones; most often the tumor affects the pericardium. The article describes two cases of mediastinal teratomas detected by ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy, with signs of rapid growth and compression symptoms typical for this localization of the tumor - hydropericardium and other manifestations of non-immune fetal hydrops. In both cases, immature teratomas (grade 2 and 3) were diagnosed with a predominance of immature neuroectodermal tissue, as well as with the presence of endoderm derivatives, including areas of the hepatoid structure, microglandular structures and cysts lined with mucus-forming epithelium. The mesodermal component was represented by hyaline cartilage. An immunohistochemical study revealed an extremely high proliferative activity in the immature neuroectodermal component - more than 90% of positive nuclei were detected in the neuroepithelium upon reaction with Ki67 antibodies. In all other tissue elements, proliferative activity was low.

Fetal Presentation of Mediastinal Immature Teratoma: Ultrasound, Autopsy and Cytogenetic Findings

Teratomas are the most common congenital tumors, occurring along the midline or paraxial sites, or uncommonly, the mediastinum. Teratomas are classified as mature, containing only differentiated tissues from the three germinal layers; and immature, which also present with neuroectodermal elements, ependymal rosettes, and immature mesenchyme. Herein, we describe a new case of fetal mediastinal immature teratoma detected at 21 weeks of gestational age (wga) + 1 day with thorough cytogenetic analysis. Ultrasound (US) showed a solid and cystic mass located in the anterior mediastinum, measuring 1.8 × 1.3 cm with no signs of hydrops. At 22 wga, US showed a mass of 2.4 cm in diameter and moderate pericardial effusions. Although the prenatal risks and available therapeutic strategies were explained to the parents, they opted for termination of pregnancy. Histology showed an immature teratoma, Norris grade 2. Karyotype on the fetus and tumor exhibited a chromosomal asset of 46,XX. The fetal outcome in the case of mediastinal teratoma relies on the development of hydrops due to mass compression of vessels and heart failure. Prenatal US diagnosis and close fetal monitoring are paramount in planning adequate treatment, such as in utero surgery, ex utero intrapartum therapy (EXIT) procedure, and surgical excision after birth.

Lymphangioma of the fetal neck within the PIK3CA-related-overgrowth spectrum (PROS): A case report

The delineation of the prenatal diagnostic key features of PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum disorders will assume a crucial part in future and a prenatal diagnosis of the causing mutations would provide physicians with a simplified interdisciplinary perinatal management.

Fetal teratomas - A retrospective observational single-center study

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of course and outcome of pregnancies with prenatally diagnosed fetal teratomas of various locations in a single center between 2002 and 2019.

METHODS

Retrospective observational single-center study including prenatally suspected or diagnosed fetal teratomas. Focus was put on ultrasound findings during pregnancy. Complications, need for intervention and outcomes were compared according to tumor location.

RESULTS

79 cases of fetal teratomas were seen at our center between 2002 and 2019. Most frequent tumor locations were the sacrococcygeal region (59.5%), neck (20.2%) and oropharynx (7.6%). Complications mainly included polyhydramnios and cardiac compromise. Need for intervention during pregnancy was significantly higher in pericardial teratomas. Preterm birth before 37 and early preterm birth before 32 weeks occurred in 72.7% and 29.1%, respectively. Major causes of perinatal death were tumor bleeding in sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCTs) and respiratory failure in cervical and oropharyngeal teratomas.

CONCLUSION

There is a high need for intervention in pregnancies complicated by fetal teratomas. Pericardiocentesis in pericardial teratomas is often inevitable to reduce the risk of intrauterine demise. Amniotic fluid drainage in associated severe polyhydramnios helps to reduce the risk of preterm birth, a major cause of additional morbidity and mortality. MRI in supplement to prenatal ultrasound is useful in fetal teratomas of the neck and oropharynx in order to plan delivery.

Fetal head and neck tumors

Imaging plays a leading role in detection and diagnosis of fetal head and neck lesions. These lesions comprise a heterogeneous group of congenital tumors and malformations. Complementary imaging modalities that can be used in prenatal medicine are ultrasound and MRI. The authors discuss imaging characteristics of fetal lesions, assessment of potential complications and pregnancy management options for the most common pathology of the fetal head and neck.

Imaging of fetal brain tumors

Congenital brain tumors, defined as those diagnosed prenatally or within the first 2 months of age, represent less than 2% of pediatric brain tumors. Their location, prevalence and pathophysiology differ from those of tumors that develop later in life. Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, tumor characterization and treatment planning. The most common lesions diagnosed in utero are teratomas, followed by gliomas, choroid plexus papillomas and craniopharyngiomas. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis, diagnosis, management and prognosis of the most frequent fetal brain tumors.

Evaluation of prenatally diagnosed fetal sacrococcygeal teratomas: A case series of seventeen pregnancies from South-central Turkey

Objective

To evaluate sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) cases according to associated cardiac, extracardiac, and chromosomal anomalies in the prenatal period, and to review their outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Data of pregnancies with a prenatal diagnosis of SCT between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

One ongoing pregnancy was excluded. There were five medically terminated cases, three due to severe heart failure and the remaining two due to additional congenital defects. Two infants who had heart failure due to hyperdynamic flow died in the neonatal period. Nine infants are well and alive at the time of writing.

Conclusion

When a lesion is detected in the sacrococcygeal region during fetal sonography, the differential diagnosis should be made with an appropriate evaluation with emphasis on a possible diagnosis of fetal SCT. Tumor growth and heart failure should be monitored with serial scans when SCT has been diagnosed prenatally.

Fetal mediastinal teratoma: Misinterpretation as congenital cystic lesions of the lung on prenatal ultrasound

Congenital mediastinal teratoma can lead to development of hydrops fetalis and may be misinterpreted on ultrasound. In this case report, ultrasound revealed severe fetoplacental hydrops, moderate posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus, and multiple pulmonary cysts suggesting cystic adenomatoid malformation and displacement of the heart to the left side. Autopsy of the hydropic 24-weeks male fetus showed a large cystic-solid mediastinal mass that was consistent with nonmetastatic immature teratoma. It also demonstrated thymic, cardiac and pulmonary hypoplasia, and confirmed the germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage. Accurate prenatal diagnosis of mediastinal teratoma may be achieved by a careful Doppler ultrasound assessment that also allows evaluating the fetal outcome.

Fetal brain, head, and neck tumors: Prenatal imaging and management

Fetal tumors represent an infrequent pathology when compared to congenital malformations, although their true incidence may be underestimated. A variety of benign and malignant neoplasms may occur anywhere in the neural axis. Imaging plays an important role in the fetal tumor diagnosis and evaluation of their resultant complications. Discovery of a fetal mass on obstetric ultrasound necessitates further evaluation with prenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). New MR sequences and new applications of existing techniques have been successfully implemented in prenatal imaging. A detailed assessment may be performed using a variety of MR. Fetal tumors may be histologically benign or malignant, but their prognosis generally remains poor, especially for intracranial lesions. Unfavorable tumor location or heightened metabolic demands on a developing fetus may result in severe complications and a fatal outcome, even in cases of benign lesions. Nowadays, prenatal treatment focuses mainly on alleviation of secondary complications caused by the tumors. In this article we review congenital tumors of the brain, face, and neck encountered in prenatal life, and discuss diagnostic clues for appropriate diagnosis.

Prenatal genetic diagnosis of cardiac rhabdomyoma: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to review our institution's experience with fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma, and to document the prenatal genetic testing for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and clinical outcome of the affected pregnancies.

STUDY DESIGN

During a four-year period, patients with fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma were detected by echocardiography in the second trimester of pregnancy. Molecular genetic analysis was conducted on fetuses to screen for variants of TSC1/TSC2 genes. We reviewed medical records of these affected pregnancies, including maternal demographics, sonographic findings, genotyping results and pregnancy outcomes.

RESULTS

Eleven cases with fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma were studied during the study period. A pathogenic variant of TSC1/TSC2 genes was detected in all cases, including two with an inherited variant and nine with a de novo variant. Out of these eleven cases diagnosed prenatally, eight pregnancies were terminated and three continued till term.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac rhabdomyoma is the prenatal sign of TSC. A molecular investigation of TSC1/TSC2 genes should be recommended for fetuses with a rhabdomyoma and the parents, and the prognostic counselling should include TSC and its consequences.

Prenatal sonography of multicentric infantile myofibromatosis: Case report and review of the literature

Scant literature exists on prenatally diagnosed infantile myofibromatosis (IM). We report a case of multicentric IM, which was first recognized as a soft-tissue paraspinal mass on prenatal sonography and subsequently characterized by MRI with pathological confirmation.

Fetal heart rhabdomyomatosis: a single-center experience

Objectives: The primary aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of fetal heart tumors in a single tertiary referral center over a period of 15 years. The secondary aim was to confirm the presence of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) through the evaluation of germline mutation in TSC1/TSC2 and assess the outcomes in affected fetuses and newborns.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between 2003 and 2017. Fetal echocardiography was performed in the second trimester of pregnancy in the study population. The identification of heart tumors and further follow-up were performed by a pediatric cardiologist. Molecular genetic analysis was conducted on fetuses and children in cases where TSC was suspected.Results: In total, 39,018 fetuses were examined between 2003 and 2017. Heart tumors were detected in nine fetuses and were diagnosed as rhabdomyoma in all cases. We identified mutations in one of the TSC1 or TSC2 genes in all cases with multiple rhabdomyomas (8/9). In all born children (5/9), the genetically confirmed diagnosis of TSC was established, and clinically pathological deposits in the brain were found.Conclusion: Fetal heart tumors are usually represented by rhabdomyomas having a good cardiac prognosis. However, rhabdomyoma is usually the first symptom of TSC with a subsequent brain disorder and impaired neurological development.

Fetal Evaluation and Airway Management

Congenital causes of airway obstruction once noted at birth are now diagnosed prenatally. The adoption of ex utero intrapartum treatment has allowed for planned airway stabilization on placental support, dramatically decreasing the incidence of hypoxic injury or peripartum demise related to neonatal airway obstruction. Airway access is gained either through laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy, or a surgical airway. In complete airway obstruction, primary resection of the obstructing lesion may be performed before completion of delivery. This article reviews the current and emerging methods of fetal evaluation, indications for ex utero intrapartum treatment, and provides a detailed description of the procedure and necessary personnel.

Clinical value of serial ultrasonography in the dynamic observation of foetal cystic adrenal lesions

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasonography in cystic lesions of the adrenal gland.

METHODS

Twenty-two cases of adrenal cystic lesions found in the foetal period were retrospectively analysed. All foetuses were followed up by ultrasound after birth, and all lesions were confirmed by operation or ultrasound-guided biopsy.

RESULTS

Sixteen foetuses displayed anechoic findings, and 6 had patchy mixed echoic findings. Nevertheless, the characteristics of these lesions changed in the neonatal period: 7 cases presented as anechoic and 15 cases presented as mixed echoic. The final pathology revealed simple cysts in 7 cases, intracystic haemorrhage in 9 cases, and 6 cases of spontaneous haemorrhage of the adrenal glands.

CONCLUSIONS

The ultrasonographic findings of foetal cystic lesions in the adrenal gland and the change they undergo after birth may provide valuable information for clinical diagnosis.

Prenatal diagnosis of suprarenal mass by magnetic resonance imaging: a case series

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the perinatal outcomes and postnatal follow-up of prenatally diagnosed suprarenal masses (SRMs) evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Thirteen fetuses with SRMs detected during routine prenatal ultrasound screening were evaluated by MRI between February 2007 and May 2015. The prenatal characteristics of the masses, complications of the pregnancies, and related malformations were collected as the postnatal clinical, radiological, and pathological data. Results: The median gestational age at MRI was 30 weeks (18-41), and birth weight was 3285 (1700-3750) g. The mean follow-up period was 6 years (1.3-10). We observed 69.2% of the masses, which were predominantly cystic (69.2%), located on the left side. Associated malformations were found in 23% of the fetuses, with congenital heart defects being more prevalent. During the pregnancy, 15.4% of the fetuses had involution of the SRM, and one fetus had surgical treatment and different ultrasound and MRI diagnoses. Of the 69.2% of the cases, spontaneous resolution occurred in 30.7% during the first year of life and 38.4% the masses presented without modifications or signs of regression since the neonatal period. Conclusions: Prenatal SRMs were associated with congenital heart defects. Spontaneous regression and absence of modifications in the masses were commonly observed in the long-term follow-up of the SRMs.

Huge fetal hepatic Hemangioma: prenatal diagnosis on ultrasound and prognosis

Background

Although huge fetal hepatic hemangiomas are rare, they can cause fatal complications. The purpose of this study is to describe the imaging features and prognosis of these tumors.

Methods

Imaging data were collected for 6 patients with huge fetal hepatic hemangiomas treated at our hospital. Imaging modalities included prenatal magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound and postnatal color Doppler ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT).

Results

Among the 93,562 fetuses of 92,126 pregnant women examined at our hospital, 6 had huge hepatic hemangiomas (incidence rate, 0.64/10,000), as confirmed via postnatal color Doppler imaging and contrast-enhanced CT. Five fetuses had solitary lesions, whereas 1 (fetus 2) had multiple lesions. Four fetuses had lesions in the right liver lobe and 1 had a lesion in the left liver lobe, and 1 (fetus 2) had lesions in both lobes. All lesions showed centripetal enhancement on postnatal contrast-enhanced CT, which was more intense peripherally. Following postnatal treatment with oral propranolol, with or without dexamethasone or interventional therapy with the medical sclerosant pingyangmycin, all lesions decreased in size, with calcification plaques appearing 6 months after treatment.

Conclusions

Huge hepatic hemangiomas have typical ultrasonographic features and can be diagnosed prenatally. Treatment with propranolol, with or without dexamethasone, may result in a favorable prognosis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12884-017-1635-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Neonatal Solid Tumors: Incidence and Survival in France

BACKGROUND

Solid tumors are uncommon in the neonatal period but represent an important cause of mortality and morbidity.

PROCEDURE

Using the French National Registry of Childhood Solid Tumors database, all children, from birth to 28 days of age inclusive, with a primary malignant solid tumor diagnosed between 2000 and 2009 in mainland France were identified. Tumors were classified according to the third version of the International Classification of Childhood Cancer.

RESULTS

Of total 285 solid tumors over 10 years, the most common cancer was neuroblastoma (47%), followed by germ cell tumors (29%), central nervous system tumors (10%), and soft tissue sarcomas (8%). The annual incidence was 36.6 per million live births. No statistically significant change in time trends of incidence was observed during 2000-2009. Routine ultrasonography during pregnancy established the diagnosis in 52% of cases. Thirteen neonates (4.5%) had congenital abnormalities associated with their tumors. For all solid tumors combined, overall survival was 84.2% (95% CI, 79.4-87.9) at 1 year and 83.8% (95% CI, 79.0-87.6) at 5 years. More favorable prognosis was significantly associated with neonates treated by surgery (65% of cases) compared to those without tumor excision. However, perioperative and postoperative mortality was 8%.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of their relative rarity, there is a paucity of objective information on the epidemiology, optimal treatment, and long-term outcome of neonatal solid tumors. But to obtain a clearer picture of the epidemiology of neonatal tumors, it is essential to have some recommendations on the methodological approach used to study them.

Airway compromise in the fetus and neonate: Prenatal assessment and perinatal management

The fetus with a potentially obstructed airway can be identified on routine antenatal imaging. These cases should be referred to fetal care centers, which have the necessary expertise to fully evaluate and manage these fetuses and neonates appropriately. Complete airway obstruction may result in fetal hydrops and intrauterine demise. If a newborn infant has a compromised airway at delivery, the inability to secure its airway quickly may result in a hypoxic cerebral insult or death. In the most severely affected cases, prenatal, perinatal, or postnatal surgical intervention may be necessary. The timing of such an intervention will depend on the exact cause of the airway obstruction, other associated findings and the anticipated difficulty in establishing an airway at delivery. Fetal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging can differentiate between intrinsic and extrinsic airway obstruction, which allows for the optimal planning and management of the delivery and neonatal resuscitation.

The role of prenatal ultrasound assessment in management of fetal cervicofacial tumors

Ultrasound prenatal examination enables one to assess the facial skeleton and the neck from the first weeks of gestation. Cervicofacial tumors detected via prenatal ultrasound are very rarely reported fetal pathologies. They include cystic hygromas, teratomas, epulides, vascular tumors, and thyroid tumors. The tumor category, its location and vascularization pattern allow one to accurately establish a diagnosis which is usually confirmed by clinical examination of the neonate or a pathological examination (surgical specimen, biopsy, autopsy). The prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of cervicofacial tumor in the fetus allows planning of pregnancy management and fetal therapy, preparation of the delivery, and perinatal as well as neonatal treatment.

Prenatal diagnosis and outcomes of fetal teratomas

PURPOSE

Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of ultrasonography (US) in the prenatal identification of teratomas and the perinatal outcome of the fetuses with those teratomas.

METHODS

In this retrospective case series study, we searched the archives using the keywords "fetal mass" or "fetal tumor" or "fetal teratoma" and "sacrococcygeal teratoma," diagnosed between 2009 and 2014, within the US database of our center.

RESULTS

One hundred seven fetuses were prenatally diagnosed as having a cystic or solid mass, tumor, or teratoma. Nineteen of those cases were diagnosed prenatally as having fetal teratoma, but that diagnosis could not be verified in three cases. In one fetus, the prenatal diagnosis could not be confirmed. The sensitivity of US in identifying fetal teratoma was 100% and the false-positive rate, 3.3%. Six pregnancies complicated by a fetal teratoma were terminated. A normal karyotype was identified in all fetuses that underwent karyotyping. Among the nine women who continued their pregnancy, polyhydramnios was identified in four fetuses; although high-output heart failure was also identified in two of those fetuses during prenatal follow-up, none developed hydrops. On delivery, nine infants were born alive, but three (33.3%) of them died within the early neonatal period.

CONCLUSIONS

US has very high sensitivity and low false-positive rates in identifying fetal teratoma prenatally. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities is very low in fetuses with teratoma, and their prognosis depends on the location and size of the tumor and any associated perinatal complications.

Fetal suprarenal masses--assessing the complementary role of magnetic resonance and ultrasound for diagnosis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the value and complementary roles of fetal MRI and US for characterization and diagnosis of suprarenal masses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a multi-institutional retrospective database search for prenatally diagnosed suprarenal masses between 1999 and 2012 and evaluated the roles of prenatal US and fetal MRI for characterization and diagnosis, using postnatal diagnosis or surgical pathology as the reference standard. Prenatal US and fetal MRI were assessed for unique findings of each modality.

RESULTS

The database yielded 25 fetuses (gestational age 20-37 weeks) with suprarenal masses. Twenty-one fetuses had prenatal US, 22 had MRI, 17 had both. Postnatal diagnoses included nine subdiaphragmatic extralobar sequestrations, seven adrenal hemorrhages, five neuroblastomas (four metastatic), two lymphatic malformations, one duplex kidney with upper pole cystic dysplasia, and one adrenal hyperplasia. Ultrasound was concordant with MRI for diagnoses in 12/17 (70.6%) cases. Discordant diagnoses between US and MRI included three neuroblastomas and two adrenal hemorrhages. In the three neuroblastomas US was equivocal and MRI was definitive for neuroblastoma, demonstrating heterogeneous, intermediate-signal solid masses and liver metastases. In the two cases of adrenal hemorrhage US was equivocal and MRI was definitive with signal characteristics of hemorrhage. In 2/4 neuroblastomas, Doppler US demonstrated a systemic artery suggesting extralobar sequestration; however MRI signal characteristics correctly diagnosed neuroblastoma. All cases of extralobar sequestration were correctly diagnosed by US and MRI.

CONCLUSION

US and MRI both accurately detect suprarenal masses. MRI complements US in equivocal diagnoses and detects additional findings such as liver metastases in neuroblastoma.

Medical and ethical challenges in the case of a prenatally undiagnosed massive congenital brain tumor

Fetal and neonatal brain tumors are rare. Prenatal ultrasound aids early tumor detection. Nonetheless, we encountered a preterm neonate born at 32 weeks gestation with a massive supratentorial glioma, which was undetected on ultrasound at 19-6/7 weeks gestation. The patient presented at birth with unanticipated massive macrocephaly. Resuscitation and stabilization were difficult, but the medical team felt that futility of care was not established and opted to transfer the baby to an academic center for further imaging and specialist consultations. Diagnosis of an extensive, inoperable tumor was confirmed and support withdrawn. Postmortem histologic examination and immunohistochemical stains identified the majority of tumor cells as glial in origin. This case report illustrates well how a severe and potentially fatal anomaly, which remained undetected prenatally, presented the medical team and family with multiple medical, ethical and emotional challenges at birth; decisions regarding futility of care in the neonatal transport setting are difficult.

Retrospective chart review of 44 fetuses with cervicofacial tumors in the sonographic assessment

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this retrospective study was to review and analyze ultrasonography examinations and follow-up of fetuses with cervicofacial tumors to develop bases for counseling specialist involved in perinatal treatment.

METHODS

The study consisted of case series with chart review of 44 fetuses with cervicofacial tumors diagnosed in utero by ultrasonography. The study was carried in Department of Diagnosis and Prevention of Congenital Malformations, Medical University of Lodz in years 1998-2013. The analysis of the fetuses with cervicofacial tumors included assessment of fetal sonographic features, neonatal survival and in utero as well as perinatal treatments. The obtained data were analyzed by the standard statistical tests and the Pearson's Chi square test, statistical significance at p=0.05.

RESULTS

Cervicofacial tumors were detected at mean 19±7 weeks of gestation. Eighty-two percent of the fetuses were males. Lymphatic malformations followed by teratomas were the most common fetal tumors in the cervicofacial region. In most cases, fetuses with cervicofacial tumors had other abnormalities. Mortality rate in our case series was 43%. In utero treatment was introduced in 6 fetuses. In 4 neonates prenatal sonographic assessment revealed upper airway patency and EXIT procedure (ex-utero intrapartum treatment) was introduced.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal sonographic detection of cervicofacial tumor, in case of lymphatic malformations possibly as early as in the first trimester, in case of craniofacial teratomas, cervical teratomas, hemangiomas and thyroid tumors possibly as early as in the second trimester, and in case of epignathi possibly in the third trimester, permits planning further course of pregnancy as well as EXIT procedure before delivery.

Fetal tumors: prenatal ultrasonographic findings and clinical characteristics

The incidence of fetal tumors has been increased due to generalization of prenatal evaluation and improvement of imaging techniques. The early detection of a fetal tumor and understanding of its imaging features are very important for fetal, maternal, and neonatal care. Ultrasonography is usually used for the detection and differential diagnosis of fetal tumors, and magnetic resonance imaging is increasingly being used as a complementary study. Many fetal tumors have different clinical and imaging features compared with pediatric tumors. Although several fetal tumors may mimic other common anomalies, some specific imaging features may carry early accurate diagnosis of fetal tumors, which may alter the prenatal management of a pregnancy and the mode of delivery, and facilitate immediate postnatal treatment.

Neonatal cancer

Neonatal cancer is rare and comprises a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with substantial histological diversity. Almost all types of paediatric cancer can occur in fetuses and neonates; however, the presentation and behaviour of neonatal tumours often differs from that in older children, leading to differences in diagnosis and management. The causes of neonatal cancer are unclear, but genetic factors probably have a key role. Other congenital abnormalities are frequently present. Teratoma and neuroblastoma are the most common histological types of neonatal cancer, with soft-tissue sarcoma, leukaemia, renal tumours, and brain tumours also among the more frequent types. Prenatal detection, most often on routine ultrasound or in the context of a known predisposition syndrome, is becoming more common. Treatment options pose challenges because of the particular vulnerability of the population. Neonatal cancer raises diagnostic, therapeutic, and ethical issues, and management requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Fetal arrhythmias associated with cardiac rhabdomyomas

BACKGROUND

Primary heart tumors in fetuses are rare and mainly represent rhabdomyomas. The tumors have a variable expression and can be associated with arrhythmias, including both wide and narrow QRS tachycardia. Although multiple Doppler techniques exist to assess fetal heart rhythm, it can be difficult to record precise electrophysiological abnormalities in fetal life.

OBJECTIVE

Investigations defining precise electrophysiological diagnosis were performed by using fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG).

METHODS

In addition to routine fetal echocardiography, fMCG was used to investigate electrophysiological rhythm patterns in a series of 10 fetuses with cardiac rhabdomyomas.

RESULTS

The mean gestational age of the fetuses was 28.6 ± 4.7 weeks. The multiple rhabdomyomas were mainly located in the right and left ventricles as well as around the atrioventricular groove. Arrhythmias or conduction abnormalities were diagnosed in all 10 patients, although only 6 of them were referred due to that indication. Remarkably, 80% (8 of 10) had associated Wolff-Parkinson-White pre-excitation. In addition, we found prominent P waves in 4 fetuses.

CONCLUSION

In fetuses with rhabdomyomas, a disease where rhythm pathology is common, precise electrophysiological diagnosis can now be made by fMCG. fMCG is complimentary to echocardiography for rhythm assessment and can detect conduction abnormalities that are not possible to diagnose prenatally with M-mode or pulsed Doppler ultrasound. Risk factor assessment using fMCG can support pregnancy management and postnatal treatment and follow-up.

Prenatal diagnosis of a huge facial tumor: report of a rare case and literature review

Neonatal tumors are reported to occur in approximately 17-121 per million live births worldwide. They are often diagnosed by ultrasonography after mid-pregnancy. Teratomas are the most frequent solid neoplasms, accounting for between one-quarter and one-third of cases. Here, we describe the prenatal diagnosis of a fetal face teratoma located on the right temporal side at 26 weeks of gestation. Besides 2D and 4D ultrasound imaging, fetal magnetic resonance imaging provides substantial support in perinatal management and promotes the perception of fetal malformations by the family. Extreme intrauterine growth of the tumor with remarkable pressure to the surrounding facial structures and good perinatal prognosis following complete tumoral resection are reviewed.

Congenital tumors: imaging when life just begins

BACKGROUND: The technical developments of imaging methods over the last 2 decades are changing our knowledge of perinatal oncology. Fetal ultrasound is usually the first imaging method used and thus constitutes the reference prenatal study, but MRI seems to be an excellent complementary method for evaluating the fetus. The widespread use of both techniques has increased the diagnosis rates of congenital tumors. During pregnancy and after birth, an accurate knowledge of the possibilities and limits of the different imaging techniques available would improve the information obtainable, thus helping the medical team to make the most appropriate decisions about therapy and to inform the family about the prognosis. CONCLUSION: In this review article, we describe the main congenital neoplasms, their prognosis and their imaging characteristics with the different pre- and postnatal imaging methods available.

Neonatal brain tumours - a review

Brain tumors in infants (under the age of 1 yr) are mercifully rare. Nonetheless, neonatal tumours present a treatment challenge to those involved. Surgery can be technically challenging, if possible at all, and the sensitivity of the developing nervous system to the side-effects of radio- and chemotherapy has limited their utility as adjunctive treatments. The risk/benefit equation in the planning of treatment of neonatal tumours using these modalities is further complicated by the fact that these tumours are often histologically benign, of large dimensions, but are often situated in locations that lead to a fatal outcome. This review article seeks to provide guidance on the management of neonatal patients and infants up to 1 year of age with brain tumours based on evidence from the literature.

Perinatal germ cell tumors: a case report of a cervical teratoma

Teratomas belong to a class of tumors known as germ cell tumors. Cervical teratomas are rare and account for 1.5% to 5.5% of all pediatric teratomas. These types of tumors are the result of abnormal development of pluripotent cells. The following case study describes a 36-week male infant who was prenatally diagnosed with a large cervical mass. The neonate was delivered via the EXIT (ex utero intrapartum treatment) procedure, with expert teams present. After stabilization, the infant was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. The teratoma was removed on day of life 5. The pathology report indicated a malignant germ cell tumor. A chemotherapy regimen was developed for this critically ill neonate in the NICU. An interdisciplinary treatment approach allowed safe and optimal quality of care. Baby CM was discharged on day of life 88 without complications and continues to be cancer free and at home thriving.

Tumours of the fetal body: a review

Tumours of the fetal body are rare, but lesions have been reported in all spaces, especially in the mediastinum, the pericardial space, the adrenals, the kidney, and the liver. Lymphangioma and teratoma are the commonest histological types encountered, followed by cardiac rhabdomyoma. Adrenal neuroblastoma is the commonest malignant tumour. Imaging plays an essential role in the detection and work-up of these tumours. In addition to assisting clinicians it also helps in counselling parents. Most tumours are detected by antenatal US, but fetal MRI is increasingly used as it brings significant additional information in terms of tumour extent, composition and complications.