A Correlation between Congenital Malformations and Placenta

Abstract

The placenta is a vital organ for fetal development in utero. Placental abnormalities, therefore, might be reflected in the production of fetal abnormalities. In general, the formation of the placental circulation can be correlated with the organogenetic period of the embryo. If a circulatory disturbance occurs between the fetus and placenta at this period, fetal abnormalities may appear. There is, however, some doubt whether as to a causal relationship to fetal malformations should be ascribed to the placenta. To imply that the placenta itself is concerned in the production of congenital anomalies would require more proof, because of experimental difficulties and a paucity of available retrospective data. In order to define the possible relationship between congenital malformations and the placenta more precisely, the placenta must be examined carefully and recorded. As a result of such detailed examinations, the relationships between placental pathology and fetal anomalies are summarized as follows; 1) chromosomal anomalies (trisomy, triploidy), 2) fetal storage disease (1-cell disease), 3) intrauterine infection (virus, bacteria, protozoa), 4) placental tumor (chorangioma) and fetal congenital tumor (sacral teratoma), 5) fetoplacental function (low estriol secretion, placental sulfatase deficiency), 6) amniotic band syndrome and amnion nodosum, 7) single umbilical artery and abnormal insertion of the cord, and 8) twin placentation. Anastcmosis in twin.