Prenatal diagnosis of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease A case report

Abstract

We present a case of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease diagnosed at 28 weeks' gestation by ultrasonographic examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The fetal kidneys were symmetrically enlarged and highly echogenic by ultrasonographic examination and showed high-signal intensity on T₂-weighted images by MRI. Cystic leasions were recognized by neither examination. In addition, the pulsatility index of the fetal renal artery was normal. These findings suggest a high water content in the renal parenchyma with tiny cysts and normal blood flow in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. (J Nippon Med Sch 1999; 66: 188-190)