Fetal anomalies or birth defects are structural or functional issues that arise during a baby’s development in the womb. These anomalies can affect the physical appearance of the baby, their organ function, or overall health. While many pregnancies progress without complications, fetal anomalies occur in around 3-4% of births. Some are relatively mild and manageable with medical attention, while others can result in major health challenges.
Understanding the common fetal anomalies can help parents prepare for potential outcomes and seek early intervention when required. Some of the most common fetal anomalies are listed below:
- Neural Tube Defects (NTDs): Neural tube defects are among the most well-known fetal anomalies, affecting the brain and spinal cord. These defects happen when the neural tube, which forms early in pregnancy, doesn’t close properly.
- Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs): These are the most common types of fetal anomalies, affecting the structure as well as the function of the heart. These anomalies occur when the heart or its blood vessels don’t develop properly.
- Cleft Lip and Palate: A cleft lip or palate occurs when a baby’s lip or mouth doesn’t form properly during pregnancy. The lip and palate are formed by the joining of facial tissues. When this process is incomplete, a gap or “cleft” forms. Babies can be born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, or both. This condition can lead to feeding difficulties, speech problems, and dental issues. Fortunately, cleft lip and palate can be repaired through surgery.
- Urinary Tract Dilatation (UTD): It refers to dilation of collecting system of kidney. It results from obstruction of urinary tract or due to physiological delayed emptying in which case it is a transient finding.
- Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: It occurs due to defect in the diaphragm causing migration of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity. Prognosis depends on the site and size of defect with survival rate of 40-60 %.
- Clubfoot: It refers to contracture of variable severity at the ankle joint. It can be an isolated anomaly or can be associated with the neuromuscular disorder or chromosomal anomaly. In isolated cases, it is surgically correctible in 60-85% cases with good outcome.
Conclusion
Advances in prenatal testing and imaging helps in the early detection of many fetal anomalies, giving parents and fetal medicine experts time to plan appropriate medical care and interventions. In some cases, treatment may even begin before birth.