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Lymphatic malformation in human fetuses

A study of fetuses with Turner's syndrome or status Bonnevie-Ullrich

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Summary

In 7 spontaneously aborted fetuses characterized by a large cystic hygroma in the nuchal region and a prominent and generalized edema, the structure and extension of the lymphatic system was studied. In all fetuses marked malformations of this system were found. Although the morphologic appearance seemed to vary greatly it is suggested that the disorder is essentially a generalized hypoplasia and partial agenesis of the lymphatic system, which ceases to extend peripherally at an early embryonic stage.

A suggestion as to the mechanism of this growth inhibition is made.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Pathology, University of Utrecht, Pasteurstraat 2, 2501, Utrecht, The Netherlands

    S. C. J. van der Putte

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  1. S. C. J. van der Putte
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Additional information

I wish to thank Professor G. Bras for his helpful criticism and advice. I am very grateful to Dr. H.T. Planteydt and Dr. W.C.M. Hinsbergh, who provided me with malformed fetuses; to Mrs. M.M.M. Verzuu-Vulto for typing the manuscript; Mrs. A Jansen-Zijlstra for her technical assistance; and Mr. E. Dumernit and Mr. F.J.C. Jansen for their photographical help.

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van der Putte, S.C.J. Lymphatic malformation in human fetuses. Virchows Arch. A Path. Anat. and Histol. 376, 233–246 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00432399

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00432399

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