Any abnormal growth on the cord connecting the fetus to the placenta is called an umbilical cord cyst. There are two types, a true cyst and a false cyst, and they can occur anywhere along the umbilical cord, but are more common at the end closest to the fetus.
True Umbilical Cord Cysts
True umbilical cord cysts contain cells that may be left over from the early part of embryonic development. They are lined with these embryonic cells and contain living tissue. They often spontaneously heal themselves and disappear by the second trimester.
False Cysts of the Umbilical Cord
A false umbilical cord cyst, also called a pseudocyst, usually occurs when the Wharton's jelly inside the cord swells into an outpocket. About 20% of babies with false cysts also have some other problems, including chromosomal abnormalities and omphalocele, a condition where the intestines protrude outside the abdominal cavity.
Diagnosing Umbilical Cord Cysts
Ultrasound - most detected near where cord attaches to placenta- easiest to see in first trimester when everything is small. When doctors spot multiple cysts in the umbilical cord, these often indicate a serious defect, which often leads to miscarriage. A diagnosis of a single cyst is not considered as severe and will likely be monitored to see if it goes away on its own, according to a study in the journal Ultrasound Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The Dangers of Umbilical Cord Cysts
Both can indicate birth defects, so doctors often recommend other tests if a cyst is found. Amniocentesis or ultrasound to rule out problems. If no other problems are found, then things are likely to be fine. Most cysts disappear on their own long before birth.
However, if a cyst remains up through the third trimester, it can become a major problem during birth. The cyst can potentially rupture during delivery, causing life-threatening bleeding in the baby. The doctor should evaluate cases like this and determine the likelihood of a problem before labor begins. A caesarian section might be necessary if it looks like the cyst will be dangerous for mother or baby.
Umbilical cord cysts are a rare defect, but other umbilical cord problems are more common. The article Fetal Umbilical Cord Problems explains some of the most frequently occurring umbilical cord issues and the potential complications that might occur in babies who have them.
Sources:
Ghezzi F, et al. Single and multiple umbilical cord cysts in early gestation: two different entities. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol. March 2003.
Umbilical Cord Abnormalities- The March of Dimes website
Bridget Coila - I'm a cell and molecular biologist, freelance writer and photographer currently living in Beijing, China. I'm fascinated by science, ...
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