Potter sequence

As oligohydramnios sequence a number of effects is described, which are initiated by an insufficient production of amniotic fluid ( with the formation of a Oligohydramnions ) during pregnancy.

Originally duplexed absence of the kidneys ( bilateral renal agenesis ) by Edith Louise Potter ( 1901-1993 ), an American pathologist, described in a series of 5,000 autopsies in 17 male and three female fetuses or neonates, the syndrome was first as a Potter syndrome or renofaziale dysplasia referred. It is characterized by:

• Malformations in the urogenital tract, especially agenesis (absence or very severe underdevelopment ) of both kidneys
• Clubfeet
• Hypoplasia ( underdevelopment ) of the lungs
• Possible further malformations and / or malposition of the extremities and the spine
• Facial deformities ( the so-called Potter facies): special shaping of the ears, relatively low set ears and flat, missing cartilage
• Epicanthus medialis
• Hypertelorism ( relatively long eye relief )
• Micrognathia ( underdevelopment of the lower jaw, which acts shortened )

All these peculiarities are conditioned by the claustrophobic space conditions by the lack of amniotic fluid in the womb and the unusual growth conditions for the unborn child.

Since the etiology in itself pathogenetic final pathway is not limited to the absence of the kidneys, is now mostly spoken by a oligohydramnios sequence.

• Malformation
• Disease in gynecology and obstetrics
• Disease in urology