Amniotic Band Syndrome with Calvaria Involvement Mimicking Anecephaly During a Mid-Trimester Ultrasound Scan - A Case Report Amniotic Band Syndrome with Calvaria Involvement Mimicking Anecephaly Section Case Report

Abstract

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) consists of multiple irregular fibrotic bands stretching out from placenta to the fetus that can result in many fetal abnormalities. The calvaria involvement may mimic anencephaly. A 30-year-old primigravida with anomaly ultrasound scan at a gestational age of 22 weeks showing a poorly formed fetal head with bulging eyes giving the typical ‘frog eye’ appearance of anencephaly and linear echogenic structures arising from the placenta into the amniotic cavity consistent with an amniotic band. A diagnosis of anencephaly was made. She was counseled on the prognosis of the fetal anomaly and she opted for termination of the pregnancy. She expelled a fresh female stillborn with well-formed cranium which had a deep laceration on the scalp and extrusion of the brain substance. A diagnosis of amniotic band syndrome with calvaria involvement was made. Congenital anomalies caused ABS are unique and when it involves the calvarium, it can mimic anencephaly.