On a routine second trimester anomaly scan, the fetal bowel appears diffusely as echogenic as adjacent iliac bone. Which of the following is a recognised association of fetal hyperechogenic bowel?
- A Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
- B Isolated polyhydramnios
- C Cystic fibrosis ✓
- D Duodenal web
Correct answer: C. Cystic fibrosis
Explanation
Fetal hyperechogenic bowel, defined as bowel echogenicity equal to or greater than that of surrounding bone, is associated with cystic fibrosis (from meconium inspissation), chromosomal anomalies including trisomy 21, congenital cytomegalovirus infection, swallowed meconium or blood, and intrauterine growth restriction. Its detection warrants detailed anomaly assessment, amniocentesis for karyotype and CMV testing, and parental carrier testing for CFTR mutations. Diaphragmatic hernia, isolated polyhydramnios and duodenal web are not established associations.
Reference: Rumack's Diagnostic Ultrasound, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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