Evolving Fetal Biometry in Fetal Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt With Late-Onset Preeclampsia and Focal Umbilical Cord Hypercoiling: A Case Report.
Shiqi Liu, Xiaoya Shen, Ying Tang
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A pregnancy was evaluated at 26 + 3 weeks for suspected severe early-onset fetal growth restriction, with fetal weight below the 1st percentile. Imaging revealed a fetal intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Serial assessments showed improved fetal biometry, despite a focal hypercoiled umbilical cord. Delivery occurred at 35 + 2 weeks due to severe preeclampsia. The neonate was appropriate for gestational age, with postnatal confirmation of shunting.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights the coexistence of fetal intrahepatic portosystemic shunt with late-onset preeclampsia and focal umbilical cord hypercoiling, complicating fetal growth assessment.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider the impact of intrahepatic portosystemic shunt on fetal growth assessment, especially in the presence of umbilical cord abnormalities.
Why it matters
Understanding the interplay between fetal shunting and umbilical cord conditions can improve prenatal monitoring and management strategies.