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Amniotic constriction bands - Overview

Alternative Names

Pseudo-ainhum; Streeter's dysplasia; Amniotic band sequence; Amniotic band syndrome

Definition of Amniotic constriction bands:

Amniotic constriction bands are strands of fluid-filled sacs that surround a baby in the womb. They may cause a congenital (present from birth) deformity of the arms, legs, fingers, or toes.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Amniotic constriction bands are caused by a type of damage to a part of the placenta called the amnion. The placenta carries blood to a baby still growing in the womb. Damage to the placenta can prevent normal growth development.

Damage to the amnion may produce fiber-like bands that can trap the arms, legs, fingers, or toes of the fetus. These bands reduce blood supply to the areas and cause them to develop abnormally.

Amniotic constriction bands are relatively rare.

  • Reviewed last on: 4/13/2009
  • A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Deirdre O’Reilly, MD, MPH, Neonatologist, Division of Newborn Medicine, Children’s Hospital Boston and Instructor in Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (10/11/2007).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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