Amanda D Mulch1, Shawn P Stallings, Carolyn M Salafia. 1. University of Tennessee College of Medicine-Chattanooga Unit Department of OB/GYN, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA. amulchdrsmiley@hotmail.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: Variceal dilatation of the umbilical vein is a rare vascular anomaly of the umbilical cord. We present a patient case where dilatation of the umbilical vein was associated with an elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein on prenatal testing and mesenchymal dysplasia on pathological evaluation of the placenta. RESULTS: Alterations in the villous structure of the placenta as in mesenchymal dysplasia may lead to increased placental permeability causing an elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein on antenatal testing. CONCLUSION: Abnormal testing should be an indication for close evaluation of the placenta and placental structures, as well as the fetus.
OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: Variceal dilatation of the umbilical vein is a rare vascular anomaly of the umbilical cord. We present a patient case where dilatation of the umbilical vein was associated with an elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein on prenatal testing and mesenchymal dysplasia on pathological evaluation of the placenta. RESULTS: Alterations in the villous structure of the placenta as in mesenchymal dysplasia may lead to increased placental permeability causing an elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein on antenatal testing. CONCLUSION: Abnormal testing should be an indication for close evaluation of the placenta and placental structures, as well as the fetus.