Fetal mustache in early pregnancy.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to determine the incidence in an unselected population of a rod-like structure on the fetal upper lip (called a 'mustache') which we had previously observed as an incidental finding. A secondary aim was to determine whether this was associated with any abnormalities or abnormal outcomes.


METHODS
Prospective non-randomized study.


METHODS
Three thousand consecutive fetuses from an unselected population were scanned by one sonologist.


METHODS
Transvaginal ultrasound examinations were performed at 14-16 weeks' gestation. Repeat sonographic examinations were performed at 20-22 weeks' gestation in cases where a mustache was detected, and these neonates were examined by a pediatrician after delivery.


RESULTS
Seven of 3000 fetuses had a mustache-like structure on the upper lip. The 'mustache' disappeared later in gestation. No anomaly of the upper lip was detected after birth in these fetuses.


CONCLUSIONS
A mustache-like structure on the fetal upper lip in early pregnancy probably represents a normal variant of lip development. It is likely to represent a delay in the normal process of lip fusion during embryonic life.
Bronshtein
M
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
Zimmer
E Z
EZ
Offir
H
H
Blazer
S
S
D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008046:Lip / Q000196:embryology*; D008445:Maxillofacial Development; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal