ANOMALIES ASSOCIATED WITH GASTROSCHISIS

• Associated anomalies are present in 13% of cases.
• Usually isolated.
• Intestinal atresia / stenosis (1). The blood vessels supplying bowel may become torsed or compressed as they exit or return through a tight defect.
• Intestinal malrotation or volvulus.
• Ileal deformity known as "Christmas tree" atresia (2).
• Ectopia cordis.
• Elevated maternal serum AFP in 77% of cases.
• The association between gastroschisis and arthrogryposis of the amyoplasia type has been described with a frequency of 3-5% (3).

REFERENCES

1. Emanuel PG, Garcia GI, Angtuaco TL. Prenatal detection of anterior abdominal wall defects with US. Radiographics 1995;15:517-530.
2. Paidas MJ, Crombleholme TM, Robertson FM. Prenatal diagnosis and management of the fetus with an abdominal wall defect. Semin Perinatol 1994;18:196.
3. Brantberg A, Blaas H –G, Salvesen KA et.al. Surveillance and outcome of fetuses with gastroschisis. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2004;23:4-13.