AbstractCongenital anomalies are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality during perinatal and early neonatal period. The overall fetal outcome depends upon the extent, severity, onset and number of organs affected by anomalies. Early detection with ultrasonography helps in establishing prognostic impact of fetus if pregnancy is continued versus timely termination of pregnancy if fetal late viability is questionable or permanent irreversible anomalies detected have high propensity for lifelong physical or mental disability. However, the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography for fetal anomaly detection is varied depending upon gestational age, operator training, and definition of malformations and risk of anomalies prevalent in target population. Recent advancements in screening by ultrasonography and maternal serum biochemistry have posed a serious challenge to invasive prenatal testing methods, which still is considered gold standard. End of life decision by parents for detected fetal anomalies by premature termination of pregnancy is emotionally challenging event mixed with moral, legal and ethical dilemma.
Keywords: Congenital Anomalies; Ultrasonography; Fetal Malformations.