Fetal choledochal cyst

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 9 Sep 2024

Fetal choledochal cysts are choledochal cysts diagnosed in utero.

The estimated incidence rate of choledochal cysts is  ~1 in 2 million live births 2. There is a recognized female predilection and a greater occurrence in Asian populations.

It may be seen as an anechoic fetal intra-abdominal cyst within or close to the fetal liver. 

Demonstration of continuity with the fetal gallbladder or hepatic ducts or presence of associated intra- and extrahepatic ducts may further aid the diagnosis.

Surgical excision with a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis is often performed postpartum as part of management.

On ultrasound, the main differential considerations for the cyst within the adjacent to the liver include

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