Gastroschisis

Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Due to anomalous development and failure of fusion of the embryonic ventral folds (cephalic, paired lateral, and caudal) which form the anterior abdominal wall. Gastroschisis results from partial absorption of the medial part of either lateral fold and produces a complete defect in the anterior abdominal wall lateral to the umbilicus with no sac covering the herniated bowel and the umbilical cord attaching normally adjacent to defect. Infrequently, associated congenital defects may be seen.

Pathology:
Not applicable

Imaging Findings:
An abdominal film will show a mass of extra-abdominal bowel loops protruding from the anterior abdominal wall with no covering membrane.

Since the diagnosis is made clinically, the radiological evaluation is important to determine if there are associated congenital abnormalities.

DDX:

• Omphalocele

References:

• Correlapedia
• Correlapedia

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