Genetic and Perinatal Outcomes in Fetuses with Echogenic Bowel: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

This study aimed to evaluate the genetic and perinatal outcomes of fetuses diagnosed with echogenic bowel during the second-trimester ultrasound examination and to explore the relationship between isolated and non-isolated findings. A retrospective, single-center study was conducted at the University of Health Sciences, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital. Medical records of 81 pregnancies with a prenatal diagnosis of fetal echogenic bowel between January 2023 and July 2025 were reviewed. Demographic characteristics, sonographic findings, genetic test results, and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed. Among all cases diagnosed with echogenic bowel, a proportion showed additional sonographic markers or structural anomalies, whereas others were isolated findings. Of the 81 cases, 47 had isolated echogenic bowel, 28 had two soft markers, and 6 had three or more. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in six fetuses (five trisomy 21, one trisomy 18). Two of them were isolated FEB cases, others had additional soft markers or major structural anomalies. 34 of all patients had live delivery in our facility. Comparing these patients’ perinatal outcomes with the control group, the 1-minute Apgar score and umbilical cord base deficit values were significantly lower in the FEB group, while gestational age at delivery, birth weight, and NICU admission rates were comparable. Fetal echogenic bowel represents a heterogeneous condition with variable clinical significance. Genetic testing provides valuable diagnostic insight in non-isolated cases. Careful evaluation of associated findings remains crucial for risk assessment and counseling in pregnancies complicated by fetal echogenic bowel.