Analysis of placental surface cysts using ultrasonography: Histological and clinical correlation

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the diagnostic utility of ultrasonography, along with the clinical and histopathologic characteristics, and prognosis specifically related to placental surface cysts.MethodWe conducted a retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with placental surface cysts at the Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, between July 2010 and November 2022. Data were collected from a computer database of ultrasound images, and electronic medical records were reviewed. Placental cysts not located on the placental surface and cases where delivery occurred at outside institutions were excluded from the analysis.ResultsWe gathered data from 22 pregnant women who presented with placental surface cystic masses. These women had a mean age of 28.14 ± 3.04 years and the cysts were identified by ultrasound at a mean gestational age of 29 ± 5 weeks. The cysts were found to have varying sizes (ranging from 8 to 88 mm, with an average size of 47 ± 24 mm). Thirteen patients (59.09%) had cysts located near the placental cord insertion site (PCIS). All neonates, except for one case of induced labor, had favorable prognoses. The majority of the cysts were identified as amniotic cysts. Pathological diagnosis revealed degenerative changes in the placenta, with the cysts attributed to subchorionic fibrin formation by the central cyst.ConclusionPlacental surface cysts typically do not present with specific clinical symptoms and are diagnosed through ultrasound. It is important to note that this study specifically focused on placental surface cysts, excluding those not located on the placental surface. Regular ultrasound follow‐up is recommended, and the prognosis for placental surface cysts is excellent.