Relationship between fetal brain development and congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Bradshaw C, Uus A, Verdera JA, Rutherford M, Hall M, Arechvo A, Hutter J, Story L (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article, Review article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
Book Volume: 317
Pages Range: 114869-
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2025.114869
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a complex fetal anomaly primarily associated with pulmonary hypoplasia and persistent pulmonary hypertension, but emerging evidence suggests that associated neurodevelopmental impairment may begin antenatally. This review examines current literature demonstrating alterations in fetal brain development in CDH, including regional reductions in brain volume, disrupted cortical architecture, and altered cerebral perfusion identified through fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound-Doppler studies. Animal models further implicate hypoxia, impaired vascularisation, and neuroinflammation as contributing factors. These findings support a multifactorial pathogenesis involving hemodynamic and inflammatory mechanisms. Understanding antenatal brain changes in CDH may inform future prognostication and assist in optimising antenatal and postnatal management.
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United Kingdom (GB)How to cite
APA:
Bradshaw, C., Uus, A., Verdera, J.A., Rutherford, M., Hall, M., Arechvo, A.,... Story, L. (2026). Relationship between fetal brain development and congenital diaphragmatic hernia. European Journal of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 317, 114869-. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejogrb.2025.114869
MLA:
Bradshaw, Charline, et al. "Relationship between fetal brain development and congenital diaphragmatic hernia." European Journal of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Biology 317 (2026): 114869-.
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