In utero appearance of idiopathic infantile arterial calcification: ultrasound study of a 28‐week fetus

An ultrasound study of a 28‐week gestation demonstrated changes of poor cardiac function associated with calcifications of the wall of major arteries. Sudden in utero deterioration into hydrops prompted the delivery of a female infant who was diagnosed at autopsy of having a rare disease entity, idiopathic infantile arterial calcification. When a hydropic fetus is defined by ultrasound, this rare diagnosis should be included in the diagnostic considerations. Recent reports suggest successful therapy regimens for an otherwise fatal disease, making accurate diagnosis especially important. Copyright © 1991 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology