Umbilical Cord Cysts: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Umbilical cord cysts are fluid-filled structures that can be found in the umbilical cord during pregnancy. They are usually detected during routine ultrasound examinations. Understanding their implications is important for assessing fetal health.

Types of Umbilical Cord Cysts

There are two main types of umbilical cord cysts:

  1. True Cysts - These are lined with epithelium and originate from remnants of embryologic structures such as the allantois or the omphalomesenteric duct.
  2. Pseudocysts - These do not have an epithelial lining and are caused by localized edema or degeneration of Wharton’s jelly, the gelatinous substance that cushions the umbilical cord.

Clinical Significance

  • Isolated cysts in early pregnancy are often benign and may resolve spontaneously.
  • Persistent or multiple cysts can be associated with chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., trisomy 18), structural malformations, or placental insufficiency.
  • Cysts found in the second or third trimester require careful evaluation to rule out fetal anomalies.

Diagnosis and Management

  • Ultrasound is the primary tool for detecting and monitoring umbilical cord cysts.
  • Chromosomal testing (e.g., amniocentesis or non-invasive prenatal testing) may be recommended if cysts are accompanied by other abnormal findings.
  • Fetal echocardiography might be needed if the cysts are linked to congenital heart defects.
  • Close follow-up with serial ultrasounds is often advised to track cyst development and ensure healthy fetal growth.

Conclusion

While most umbilical cord cysts are harmless, a thorough evaluation is needed to exclude associated anomalies. If detected, consult with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist to determine the appropriate next steps.

Source recommendations

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Guidelines

  1. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-practice-guideline
  2. https://www.guidelinecentral.com/guidelines/ACOG/
  3. https://www.acog.org/clinical
  4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1724598/
  5. https://www.acog.org/

2. European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology Guidelines

  1. https://www.eshre.eu/Guidelines-and-Legal
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35350465/
  3. https://www.eshre.eu/
  4. https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/31/5/926/1749616
  5. https://www.eshre.eu/guideline/endometriosis

Our advantages:

patient2376100
Best practices from USA, EU and Japan
Our answers to your questions are based on the clinical recommendations of countries with the most developed healthcare systems in the field of cardiology in the USA, the EU and Japan.
prescription18648039
Always up-to-date information
On a daily basis, we monitor for you all new scientific research publications in leading scientific journals on medical issues of interest to you.
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
fvfflf7q
Get second opinion
Here you can learn everything that even your doctor may not know about cardiology (if he does not speak English and he does not read 117 leading medical journals on cardiology every month).
1xr4duup
The most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials
Our website contains the most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials in your country.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.
arrow
Please register in order to receive information regarding possible complications and new approaches to treatment of cardiovascular diseases via email in our Newsletters.
arrow