Body stalk anomaly: Clinical and histopathologic findings of this rare anomaly in a Nigerian newborn

Abstract

Introduction: Body stalk anomaly (BSA) is a rare and severe congenital malformation in which the exact pathophysiology is still  unknown. The possible causes of body stalk anomaly include early amnion rupture with direct mechanical pressure and amniotic bands,  vascular disruption of the early embryo, or an abnormality in the germinal disk.

Case presentation: We report a case of sonologically  delayed diagnosis of BSA which was confirmed post-delivery following histopathological examination and we reviewed relevant literature  regarding this phenomenon. Sonographic features of the foetus included a wide anterior abdominal wall defect (omphalocele) with  protrusion of the liver into the amniotic cavity. The umbilical arteries show normal calibre, flow, velocimetry, and spectral waveform.  

Conclusion: Body stalk anomaly is accepted as a fatal anomaly, so it is important to differentiate it from other anterior abdominal wall  defects prenatally and this could guide the management options.