Fetal Pathologies

Question 1

Choanal atresia

Answer 1

Occlusion of the passage way between the nose and pharynx

Question 2

Pulmonary hypoplasia

Answer 2

Underdevelopment of the lung

Question 3

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Answer 3

Birth defect where the diaphragm fails to fully develop, allowing abdominal organs to enter the chest cavity.

Question 4

Why is Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernias a problem?

Answer 4

Displaces the heart and compresses the lungs, leading to lung underdevelopment (pulmonary hypoplasia).

Question 5

What are the consequences of pulmonary hypoplasia?

Answer 5

Reduces alveolar surface area for gas exchange and risk of hypertension (abnormal blood vessels + Persistent fetal circulation)

• air leaks are also very common

Question 6

Polyhydramnios

Answer 6

Excessive amount of amniotic fluid when fetus does not swallow and absorb the usual amount of amniotic fluid

Question 7

Oligohydramnios

Answer 7

Deficient amount of amniotic fluid

Question 8

Why does polyhydramnios occur?

Answer 8

• Impaired swallowing dysfunction
• maternal diabetes
• Premature rupture of amniotic membranes which could lead to premature birth

Question 9

Why does Oligohydramnios occur?

Answer 9

Fetal urine production issue, placental insufficiency, or premature membrane rupture

Question 10

what anatomical/physiological affects does polyhydramnios have?

Answer 10

Excessive fluid can overstretch the uterus, leading to preterm labor or uterine atony after delivery.

• Increases risk of umbilical cord prolapse
• Mispositioning to breech position
• Respiratory complications for mom

Question 11

what anatomical/physiological affects does oligohydramnios have?

Answer 11

Limited amniotic fluid restricts fetal movement, potentially leading to pulmonary hypoplasia and skeletal deformities, such as clubfoot or contractures, due to constrained fetal positioning.

• amniotic fluid is crucial for development and cushioning; so growth may be affected