Amniotic band syndrome: A case series

Abstract

Introduction: Amniotic band sequence (ABS) is a constellation of congenital anomalies that can be seen in infants without any known genetic mutations. Amniotic band syndrome is thought to be responsible for 1/70 still births. There are two leading theories for proposed pathogenesis of ABS, commonly referred to as “extrinsic” and “intrinsic” models. Case Series: Our case series depicts four deliveries at two large military hospitals. Each of our patient case demonstrates the spectrum of ABS and supports the extrinsic theory as the primary mechanism. The first case resulting in lateral encephalocele with a complex facial cleft and subsequent intrauterine fetal demise. The second patient case resulting in fetal unilateral lower extremity limb reduction. The third patient case resulting in premature prelabor rupture of membranes and delivery at 29 weeks with pedal amputation. The fourth and final patient case resulted in a lethal limb-body-wall defect with extravasation of visceral organs and a sacral myelomeningocele. Conclusion: All four of our cases lend support to the extrinsic theory as the primary pathological mechanism. Each of our patients had risk factors for potential hypoxic injury and subsequent amniotic band formation.