Abstract
IntroductionLarge chorioangioma is one of the causes of fetal anemia and heart failure as well as preterm deliveries.AimThe aim of the study was to assess the clinical implications of prenatal diagnosis of chorioangioma and present new treatment options: laser coagulation and embolisation of feeding vessles.Material and methodsChorioangioma was diagnosed in 5 patients (4 singleton pregnancies and 1 dichorionic twin pregnancy). Ultrasound examinations and routine follow-up were performed in these women to detect possible fetal and maternal complications caused by the placental tumor. Pregnancy management, including invasive procedures and outcome, was analyzed.Results and discussionA high proportion of the patients in the study group (80%) required prenatal intervention due to the fetal heart failure or polyhydramnios. Three patients underwent laser coagulation of superficial supplying vessels; embolization of the deep vessel in the tumor was performed in 1 woman with dichorionic twin gestation. One woman opted for termination of pregnancy following an ineffective laser procedure. One pregnancy (20%) was uncomplicated and managed conservatively. In the group of 4 patients after prenatal treatment, all women gave birth to viable neonates; however, in the case of twin gestation, the affected fetus expired.ConclusionsPrenatal diagnosis of chorioangioma should entail a detailed follow-up of the patient to detect pregnancy complications early enough to introduce intrauterine treatment, preventing intrauterine fetal demise.