Fetal lung and diaphragm malformations

Congenital lung abnormalities are relatively rare but very dangerous for the fetus and neonate. This article describes the most common pulmonary complications observed during pregnancy such as congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, diaphragmatic hernia, bronchopulmonary sequestration, hydrothorax, chylothorax, lung agenesia, pulmonary hypoplasia. The diagnostic methods and available therapy methods are discussed. Appropriate growth and maturation of the fetal lungs are substantial for the survival of the neonate and it creates the limits of viability. Among others, these processes are regulated by shape and size of the thorax, fetal breathing movements and adequate amniotic fluid volume. Pulmonary abnormalities are rather rare however by changing anatomy of the thorax they can create dangerous complications for the fetus eg. pulmonary hypoplasia. The most common lung abnormalities include: congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, diaphragmatic hernia, bronchopulmonary sequestration, hydrothorax, chylothorax, lung agenesia, pulmonary hypoplasia, congenital lobar emphysema and congenital high airway obstruction [14].