Perinatal Outcome of Fetal Echogenic Bowel: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate perinatal outcome of fetal echogenic bowel.

Study Design: In this retrospective cohort study, fetuses with echogenic bowel diagnosed and followed in our center between 2013-2017 were included. Fetuses and infants were evaluated in terms of antenatal comorbidities and postnatal persistent diseases. Infants were followed-up to June 2018 from time of diagnosis. Demographic questionnaire and face to face interview were used to obtain data including immune system diseases and respiratory system pathologies in infants.

Results: A total of 100 fetuses with echogenic bowel were included in the study. Fetal aneuploidy was detected in 7 (7%) cases. Trisomy 21 was the most common aneuploidy and identified in 4 (4%) cases. Other chromosomal disorders were tetrasomy 12p (1%), 69XXX (1%) and 46 XX, t (2,22) (9q9) (1%). A fetal echogenic bowel was associated with major congenital malformations in 25 (%25) cases. Cardiac abnormality was the most prevalent (%7). First and second trimester vaginal bleeding history was found in 5 pregnant women. In 3 case with isolated echogenic bowel (no congenital malformation and aneuploidy), lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and non-obstructive hydrocephalus were diagnosed in early childhood.

Conclusion: Isolated fetal echogenic bowel which can be considered as a soft marker for aneuploidy may be associated with lactose intolerance and celiac disease. Further clinical studies are warranted to evaluate this relationship.