Abstract:

Limb body wall complex (LBWC) is a complex multiple fetal malformation. The prognosis of LBWC is very poor. Early detection by ultrasound doctor is crucial for timely clinical management and termination of pregnancy. A 32-year-old female patient, 23 weeks plus 4 days gestation, underwent fetal ultrasound screening in our hospital. It was found that the fetal spine was curved at the sacrococcygeal region, the abdominal wall muscle layer and the skin continuity were interrupted, the abdominal organs were bulked out, a dark liquid area about 9 mm depth was visible in the abdominal cavity, both feet were in the position of pronation, the left foot showed 6 toes, the umbilical cord was too short, about 49 mm in length, and the extrembryonic body cavity was visible. LBWC may be considered for ultrasound diagnosis. The clinical diagnosis was LBWC after induction of labor. By reporting the case and reviewing the literature, LBWC was analyzed and introduced, so as to improve the basic doctors′ understanding of the disease.

Key words: Ultrasonography, prenatal, Abnormalities, multiple, Embryonic development, Case reports, Limb body wall complex