Amniotic band syndrome an imaging diagnosis

Abstract

Amniotic band syndrome is a rare condition1 that has a prevalence of 1 in 1200, it is a spectrum that includes involvement of the extremities, the facial skull region and the trunk, which can be found in isolation or in combination.
It should be clarified that the presence of the bands is not necessary for diagnosis, that is, they may be absent. Another name that receives this pathology is Amniotic Deformity Complex, Adhesions and Mutilations (ADAM complex1).
This affectation usually occurs between the 28th day to the 18th week of gestation, although there may be affectations after this gestational age. Some theories suggest intrinsic, extrinsic or iatrogenic causes2.
When the diagnosis is made in a timely manner, treatment guidelines can be provided that allow the release of the bands (fetal surgery) 3 Prognosis and treatment depend on the severity of the deformation and generally require extensive reconstructive treatments. If the lesion is associated with other pathologies such as the Potter sequence, the condition becomes incompatible with life4, although there is no direct association with the latter disease.
There is no increase in the risk of recurrence, nor in the incidence of chromosomal abnormalities or genetic syndromes associated with amniotic bands.
This pathology can involve craniofacial abnormalities such as facial cleft, palatal cleft, microftalmia, as well as disruptions of the formation of the skull, causing other defects such as anencephaly and encephalocele among others. Finally, the amniotic band syndrome can have multiple presentations and the treatment for each patient must be individualized, to provide the best approach as currently suggested5.