Prenatal diagnosis of an inguinoscrotal hernia in a fetus with cystic fibrosis

A detailed anatomic survey of the fetus by an experienced sonographer can detect a multitude of structural anomalies. Although relatively common in the neonate, an inguinoscrotal hernia is a condition that is rarely seen prenatally. In a male fetus, this abnormality typically appears in the third trimester as a complex scrotal mass. Active intestinal peristalsis within an enlarged scrotum is diagnostic of this condition. We report a case that involves the prenatal association between cystic fibrosis and a congenital inguinal scrotal hernia. Serial sonograms from 30 to 37 weeks' gestation provided the opportunity to follow both the abnormal bowel appearance and the progression of the hernia. Postnatal follow-up confirmed both diagnoses.