Abnormalities of the foetal cerebral cortex |
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Authors: | Ants Toi David Chitayat Susan Blaser |
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Institution: | 1. Department of Medical Imaging, Mount Sinai Hospital and University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada;2. The Prenatal Diagnosis and Medical Genetics Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada;3. Division of Neuroradiology, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
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Abstract: | Prenatal ultrasound has concentrated on readily visible cerebral structures including head size, shape, ventricles, CSP (cavum septi pellucidi), cerebellar size/vermian presence and cisterna magna. However, apart from these easily visible structures it is important to evaluate the brain itself. Patients who initially appear to have mild isolated findings such as borderline ventriculomegaly in fact can have many more subtle findings that significantly alter prognosis and management that can be detected on detailed examination of the brain. There has been rapid evolution in imaging these foetuses, especially with neurosonography and MRI, and a revolution in understanding the underlying genetic and biochemical mechanisms. There is increasing emphasis to detect cortical abnormalities as early as possible. This article reviews development of the cerebral cortex, the classification, aetiologies and clinical manifestations of cortical disorders, normal and abnormal appearances at ultrasound and MRI, and approaches to investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
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Keywords: | foetus brain malformation diagnosis ultrasound MRI |
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