Potter sequence

Potter sequence
Synonyms	Potter syndrome, Oligohydramnios sequence
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pulmonary hypoplasia, renal agenesis, limb deformities, facial anomalies
Complications	Respiratory distress, renal failure
Onset	Prenatal
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Oligohydramnios, renal agenesis, obstructive uropathy
Risks	Genetic factors, maternal conditions
Diagnosis	Ultrasound, amniocentesis, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis	Meckel-Gruber syndrome, VACTERL association
Prevention	Prenatal care, genetic counseling
Treatment	Supportive care, neonatal intensive care, renal transplantation
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Poor, often fatal
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Potter sequence (also known as Potter's Syndrome or Potter's Sequence) is a rare condition characterized by a lack of amniotic fluid in the womb during pregnancy, leading to fetal complications. It is named after Edith Potter, a pathologist who first described the condition in 1946.

Causes

Potter sequence is typically caused by bilateral renal agenesis (BRA), a condition in which the kidneys fail to develop in the fetus. Other causes can include chronic placental insufficiency, ruptured membranes, and other conditions that lead to a decrease in amniotic fluid.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Potter sequence is oligohydramnios, a condition characterized by a deficiency of amniotic fluid. This can lead to a number of complications for the fetus, including pulmonary hypoplasia (underdeveloped lungs), limb deformities, and characteristic facial features (Potter's facies) such as low-set ears, a broad, flat nose, and a receding chin.

Diagnosis

Potter sequence is usually diagnosed through prenatal ultrasound, which can detect the absence of kidneys and a lack of amniotic fluid. Postnatal diagnosis can be made based on the characteristic physical features of the baby.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for Potter sequence. Treatment is supportive and depends on the severity of the condition. This may include interventions to support breathing and kidney function.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Potter sequence is generally poor, with most babies dying shortly after birth due to respiratory failure. However, some babies with less severe forms of the condition may survive with intensive medical support.

See also

• Bilateral renal agenesis
• Oligohydramnios
• Pulmonary hypoplasia