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Significance of Timely Prenatal Care: A Case of Dandy-Walker Variant Diagnosed in the Third Trimester
German Andres Guevara Lizarazo,
Jonattan Palacios Torres,
Joshuart David Pascuas Varela ,
Mayra Alejandra Vargas Quiroga,
Marbin Yulieth Alvarez Ramirez
Affiliation: Universidad Autonoma de Bucaramanga
Keywords: Dandy-Walker Syndrome; Hydrocephalus; Agenesis of Cerebellar Vermis; Holoprosencephaly; Fourth Ventricle.
Categories: Medicine
DOI: 10.17160/josha.13.1.1120
Languages: English
This case describes a 24-year-old primigravida woman from a rural area in Santander, Colombia, who began prenatal care late at 28.3 weeks. At 29.3 weeks, obstetric ultrasound showed hypoplasia of the cerebellar vermis and an enlarged cisterna magna, later confirmed by neurosonography and fetal magnetic resonance as a Dandy-Walker spectrum variant. Congenital infections were ruled out, and the mother declined invasive genetic testing. At 39 weeks, a cesarean section was performed, and the male newborn had adequate neonatal adaptation. Postnatal cranial ultrasound revealed a cystic dilation suggestive of a Dandy-Walker variant or Blake’s pouch cyst. Outpatient follow-up was not possible. This case highlights how limited access to healthcare in rural areas can delay prenatal diagnosis and restrict a comprehensive approach, although some variants may have a benign neonatal course. Strengthening prenatal care access is essential for timely and adequate management.