Fetal

A lymphatic (lim-FA-tik) malformation, sometimes called a lymphangioma (lim-fan-gee-OH-ma) or cystic hygroma (SIS-tik hi-GROH-ma), is a non-cancerous growth that contains one or more sacs, or cysts, of clear fluid (lymph). The growths can appear anywhere on a baby’s body, but are most often found on the neck or head (Figures 1 and 2) or in the armpits (axilla) (Figure 3). They usually develop before birth, although they may not become visible for up to the baby’s second birthday or sometimes even later.

Children's is proud to announce the honoring of Joseph B. Lillegard, MD, PhD, inaugural chair holder of the Dr. Jim Sidman Endowed Chair in Fetal Research, and Brad A. Feltis, MD, PhD, inaugural chair holder of the Dr. Carol L. Wells Endowed Chair in Fetal Surgery.

Hydrops fetalis (HIGH-drops fee-TAH-lis) is a life-threatening condition in which abnormal amounts of fluid accumulate in two or more body areas of an unborn baby. Although the fluid buildup may appear anywhere in the baby’s body, it most often occurs in the abdomen, around the heart or lungs, or under the skin. Other symptoms of the condition include higher-than-normal amounts of amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios) and a thickening of the placenta.

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (also referred to as fetal growth restriction, or FGR) describes a condition in which the unborn baby is smaller than expected for his or her gestational age, or the number of weeks that the baby has been in the uterus. The term for a newborn baby who is smaller than expected is small for gestational age (SGA).

Urinary tract dilation occurs when part of the unborn baby’s urinary tract swells (dilates) abnormally with excessive amounts of urine. The swelling is often caused by a blockage or narrowing of the urinary tract, which stops or slows the urine from leaving the baby’s body. Usually, the swelling goes away on its own, either during the pregnancy or after the baby is born. In more severe cases, which are uncommon, the condition can lead to low levels of amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios).

Alan W. Flake, MD, FACS, FAAP

What is oligohydramnios?

What is selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR)?

The Great Candy Run is an event to raise funds for and awareness of fetal syndromes and is coming to the land of 10,000 lakes. Participants and spectators alike will enjoy the fun and fast 5K course designed with walkers and runners in mind, a family festival featuring games, activity stations, face painting, great refreshments, giveaways and much more.