Spontaneous perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome) in the fetus: a case report

BackgroundSpontaneous perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome) in the fetus is a rare urinary system disease. Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis presents challenges due to the lack of specific clinical features.Case presentationA 27-year-old Chinese woman gravida 2 para 0 found her fetus with the left Wunderlich syndrome accompanying bilateral hydronephroses and bladder dysfunction with an early diagnosis through prenatal ultrasound and postnatal magnetic resonance imaging. After a timely emergency cesarean section, the infant was administrated antimicrobial prophylaxis and an indwelling catheter treatment. Ultrasound follow-up showed his urinary system gradually developed normally.ConclusionA fetus with bilateral hydronephroses accompanying bladder dysfunction should be observed because of the risk of spontaneous renal rupture with hemorrhage formation. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging play a vital role in the diagnosis and follow-up of Wunderlich syndrome. Early diagnosis facilitates better pregnancy planning and appropriate care of newborns.