PRENATAL-DIAGNOSIS OF AMNIOTIC BAND SYNDROME IN A METHADONE USER - REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE AND A CASE-REPORT

We present a case and review of the literature of an amniotic band cau sing malformation in the distal forearm in a baby born to a methadone- dependent mother. This diagnosis was made prenatally at the routine 18 -20-week gestation anomaly ultrasound scan. Histology of the amniotic band postpartum revealed hair shafts within its structure. This has no t previously been documented, nor has an association of this syndrome with systematic abuse of methadone. The fact that this anomaly could b e detected by prenatal ultrasound scanning is of value in the counsell ing of high-risk pregnancies such as this.