Abstract
Our presentation of four cases demonstrates the essential features of limb-body wall complex (LBWC), representing a compound anomaly pattern in body-wall defects. The diagnosis of this entity is based on two of the three following characteristics: (1) exencephaly/encephalocele and facial clefts; (2) thoraco- and/or abdominoschisis; and (3) limb defects. A definite association with internal anomalies and severe kyphoscoliosis makes a more distinct concept of the pathogenesis reasonable. Limb-body wall malformations result from a malfunction of the ectodermal placodes involving the early embryonic folding process. The poor prognosis of LBWC calls for early antenatal diagnosis.
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Accepted: 14 April 2000
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Pumberger, W., Schaller, A. & Bernaschek, G. Limb-body wall complex: a compound anomaly pattern in body-wall defects. Pediatr Surg Int 17, 486–490 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003830000497
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003830000497