The incidence of fatal foetal anomalies associated with perinatal mortality in Ireland

The incidence of fatal foetal anomalies associated with perinatal mortality in Ireland:

Abstract

Objective

The term fatal foetal anomaly (FFA) describes a condition likely to lead to death of the foetus in utero or within 28 days of birth. This study aimed to identify what congenital anomalies are responsible for perinatal death and whether they are classified as a FFA in accordance with criteria outlined in Irish legislation.

Methods

Anonymised data pertaining to perinatal deaths from 2011 to 2016 in Ireland were obtained from the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre. Secondary data analysis were conducted using SPSS.

Results

Of the 2,638 perinatal deaths, 939 (36%) had a congenital anomaly. Nearly half were chromosomal (43%, n=406 of 939) with 36% of the cases (n=333 of 938) having more than one anomaly. Additional information was available for 777 of these congenital anomaly, of which 42% (n=328) could be classified a FFA.

Conclusion

This study identified that less than half of the congenital anomalies could be classified as a FFA, however all were fatal. This acknowledges the complexity of these cases. In isolation the congenital anomaly may not be fatal but combined as multi‐organ system anomalies it is. Knowledge is required to inform clinical practice and counselling of parents who receive such a diagnosis.

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