In utero diagnosis of an aneurysm of the vein of Galen causing hydrocephalus and heart failure

J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2003 Oct;29(5):343-6. doi: 10.1046/j.1341-8076.2003.00130.x.

Abstract

A prenatally diagnosed aneurysm of the vein of Galen was presented in the fetus of a patient referred to our hospital at 31 weeks of gestation. Ultrasonography demonstrated polyhydramnios, cardiomegaly, dilatation of the right atrium and superior vena cava, tricuspid valve regurgitation, hydrocephalus, and a large hypoechoic mass with blood flow in the suboccipital region. Skin edema was shown thereafter. A 3262-g male was delivered by cesarean at 35 weeks of gestation. Computed tomography imaging demonstrated a large mass in the suboccipital region, after which thrombocytopenia appeared and the neonate died at 18 days of age.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aneurysm / complications*
  • Aneurysm / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebral Veins / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cerebral Veins / physiopathology
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Heart Failure / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Failure / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / diagnostic imaging
  • Hydrocephalus / etiology*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal / methods*