FETAL INTRALUMINAL GASTRIC MASSES AFTER 2ND TRIMESTER AMNIOCENTESIS

Eight instances of homogeneous, well-defined echoes within the fetal s tomach were identified on routine second trimester detailed scan over a 7 month period, a prevalence of 1 in 287 or 0.35%. This finding was significantly more frequent in women who had cytogenetic amniocentesis than in those who had not had the procedure (4 in 266 [1.5%] versus 4 in 2031 [0.2%], respectively; P < 0.01). Indirect signs of intra-amni otic bleeding, such as particles in the amniotic fluid, chorioamniotic separation, or hyperechogenic bowel, were present in four cases. The association between echogenic material within the fetal stomach and cy togenetic amniocentesis is discussed.