title: Limb reduction anomalies and early in utero limb compression.
abstract: Seven instances of limb reduction defects are reported with a presumed common underlying etiologic theme of early in utero limb compression, deduced as being due to a bicornuate uterus in four instances, a large fibroid in one instance, and early amnion rupture with transient amniotic fluid loss in two instances. Similar types of limb reduction defects have been experimentally produced as a consequence of early withdrawal of amniotic fluid with resultant compression of the developing limbs, leading to vascular disruption. A similar mechanism is hypothesized to have caused these seven instances of limb reduction defects.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001132:Arm / Q000002:abnormalities*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007866:Leg / Q000002:abnormalities*; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D014599:Uterus / Q000002:abnormalities