Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung: a report of 26 cases and review of the literature

Objectives To evaluate the sonographic appearances and Prenatal natural his tory of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung. Methods In each case a detailed examination of the thoracic lesion and a co mplete fetal survey was performed. The pregnancies that elected to continue were followed to term. Results A total of 26 cases were identified. The pregnancy was electively t erminated in nine cases (35%). All the remaining 17 Pregnancies ended in li veborn infants (100%). The lesion disappeared completely in three fetuses ( 18%). Of the 14 infants in whom the lesion was confirmed at birth nine requ ired surgery in the neonatal or post-natal period. Five children did not un dergo surgery. Conclusions Conservative management appears to be an adequate medical pract ice in cases of isolated congenital unilateral cystic adenomatoid malformat ion of the lung, in the absence of hydrops and/or acute polyhydramnios.