Amniotic bands are the result of adhesions between the amnio and embryonic or fetal parts. Their frequency is comprised between 1/1200 to 1/15 000 births. Amniotic bands cause masive malformations with limb amputations, sever abdominal or cranial wall defects. Two different theories have been proposed: constrictive amniotic bands secondary to early amnion rupture, and vascular disruption events.

Types

 early amnion rupture-oligohydramnios disruption (EAROD)
 amniotic deformity-adhesion mutilation (ADAM)

Synopsis

 fetal malformations

• limb anomalies
  • intrauterine amputations
  • limb constriction rings
  • pseudosyndactyly
  • club feet
  • abnormal dermatoglyphs

• craniofacial anomalies and cranial defects
  • facial clefts (cleft lip, cleft palate)
  • microphtalmia
  • abnormal skull calicification
  • anencephaly
  • exencephaly
  • encephalocele
  • decapitation
  • pterygium

• abdominal wall anomalies
  • ompahlocele
  • gastroschisis
  • abdominal constriction ring

 constriction of the abdominal cord

The anomalies are characteristically asymmetrical.

Prediposing factors

 familial predisposition
 amniocentesis

Differential diagnosis

 Adams-Oliver syndrome (aplasia cutis-limb defects)

• scalp and/or skull defects at the vertex are associated with often asymmetric transverse limb defects.
• autosomal dominant disease is usually diagnosed after birth

 other congenital transverse deficiencies not related with band constriction

See also:

 amniotic bands