Fetal growth restriction and reversed middle cerebral artery end-diastolic flow with subchorionic placental lake

Abstract

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is frequently associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. Placental lakes are avillous spaces filled with maternal venous blood that usually do not compromise the pregnancy outcome; however, a few reports describe FGR in association with placental lakes. Reversed middle cerebral artery (MCA) end-diastolic flow is a rare event and a potential indicator of poor fetal outcome due to placental insufficiency. We report a case of severe FGR associated with a huge subchorionic placental lake concomitant with reversed MCA end-diastolic flow. We also conducted a literature review. © 2012 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.