Normal sonographic appearance of the fetal neck late in the first trimester: the pseudomembrane.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

A linear specular reflection simulating a membrane was visualized along the back of the neck on sonograms of ten normal fetuses ranging in age from 10 to 14 menstrual weeks. Follow-up ultrasound studies of eight of the fetuses and postpartum clinical examinations of all subjects were normal, revealing no evidence of neck abnormalities. Although this pseudomembrane is similar in appearance to published examples of early cystic hygroma, it is a normal finding that can be distinguished from early cystic hygroma on the basis of its less bulbous appearance and the absence of underlying septations. This structure corresponds in distribution to the skin along the back of the fetus and likely represents a specular reflection from the skin surface.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Hertzberg, BS; Bowie, JD; Carroll, BS; Killam, AP; Ruiz, P

Published Date

  • May 1989

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 171 / 2

Start / End Page

  • 427 - 429

PubMed ID

  • 2649919

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0033-8419

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1148/radiology.171.2.2649919

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States