Prenatal diagnosis of the persistent right umbilical vein, incidence and clinical significance.

Prenatal diagnosis of persistent right umbilical vein (PRUV) is important due to accompanying malformations. Pregnant women diagnosed with PRUV were analysed retrospectively. Intrahepatic PRUV was seen in 12 of 10.743 foetuses and its incidence was found to be 0.11%. The gestational week at the time of diagnosis was between 20 and 35 weeks. Six of the cases had additional abnormal sonographic findings (50%) and six cases (50%) were isolated. Major congenital malformations were seen in four (33.3%) foetuses, 75% of which were congenital heart disease (CHD). Genitourinary system anomaly accompanied in two cases (16.6%). Invasive diagnostic tests were applied to three pregnant women and the results were reported as normal karyotype. In PRUV cases, a detailed sonographic examination should be performed, especially the cardiovascular system. Although PRUV cases do not appear to be associated with chromosomal abnormalities, invasive diagnostic tests should be recommended in the presence of concomitant anomalies.Impact statement