Definition:
Pentalogy of Cantrell is a very rare syndrome which causes defects in the diaphragm, heart and lower sternum, abdominal wall, and pericardium. The syndrome are characterized into five findings. This includes Omphalocele, Anterior diaphragmatic hernia, Sternal cleft, Ectopia cordis, and Intracardiac defect which involves a defective ventricular septal or a state called diverticulum of the left ventricle. It is characterized by a combination of very severe defects involving the middle of the chest which does not exclude the sternum, abdominal wall, diaphragm, and heart.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis can be done during pregnancy or right after birth. The fetus is usually aborted naturally because it failed to develop normally. It can be seen using ultrasounds.
Treatment:
There is no known treatment that is proven effective to cure Pentalogy of Cantrell.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms for Pentalogy of Cantrell will involve the middle chest area wherein the fetus failed to develop normally and the diaphragm failed to close successfully.
Causes:
The cause of Pentalogy of Cantrell is traced back to fetal malformation due to failed development associated to genetic failure or due to some medications administered during or prior to pregnancy.
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