title: The ultrasonographic spectrum of fetal omphalocele.
abstract: Four cases of fetal omphalocele diagnosed in utero by ultrasonography represent variations in the sonographic appearance of this rare anomaly. A possible pathogenesis of omphalocele is presented, with a discussion of the associated complications and the effect of diagnosing omphalocele prenatally on the management of the pregnancy itself. The association between fetal omphalocele and elevated alpha-fetoprotein is significant, and may prompt a search for a small omphalocele that would otherwise be missed on a routine obstetric sonogram. The differentiation of omphalocele from gastroschisis is difficult, yet the two anomalies can be reliably differentiated sonographically.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006554:Hernia, Umbilical / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000196:embryology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D014463:Ultrasonography; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins / Q000032:analysis
chemical_list: D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins