Newborn with a single umbilical artery case report and literature review

Abstract

ABSTRACT The umbilical cord normally consists of two arteries and one vein. A single umbilical artery (SUA) was first described by Vesalius, considered as an anatomic curiosity until 1955, when Benirschke and Brown associated this anomaly to an elevated frequency of other more serious and sometimes fatal anomalies. Its incidence varies between 0.04 and 1.15%. The presence of SUA has been associated with some adverse perinatal events, such as intrauterine growth restriction, prematurity, congenital malformations and perinatal mortality. The authors present a case of SUA diagnosed in the delivery room, without other comorbidities. There was no mention of prenatal diagnosis. An accurate examination of the umbilical cord at delivery room is suggested, mainly because SUA is an important index to detect associated congenital malformations. It is recommended the diagnosis of SUA with early prenatal ultrasound, so that patients can have adequate monitoring of pregnancy.