The primitive gut begins development within the fourth week of gestation. Embryonic folding toward the midline results in the fusion of the abdominal wall on the midline. Fusion failure results in an abdominal defect that allows the abdominal organs to protrude into the amniotic fluid either with or without a covering membrane. Prenatal testing includes determining the levels of •-fetoprotein (MS-AFP) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with abnormal levels raising suspicion for congenital defects of the brain, spine, or abdomen. Sonography is a valuable tool in diagnosing abdominal wall defects as an isolated defect or part of a syndrome.
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