Purpose or Case Report: Fetal musculoskeletal (MSK) anomalies encompass a broad range of developmental and structural disorders that may significantly affect postnatal outcomes. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides excellent soft tissue contrast and multiplanar capability, enabling detailed evaluation of skeletal and muscular structures when ultrasound findings are limited. This pictorial review aims to illustrate the spectrum of MSK anomalies encountered on fetal MRI, emphasizing characteristic imaging features, diagnostic challenges, and the role of MRI in prenatal assessment and counseling.
Methods & Materials: A retrospective review was done from our institutional teaching and imaging database. Fetal MRI studies conducted over several years were reviewed to identify cases with confirmed musculoskeletal anomalies. Representative examples were selected to demonstrate a range of developmental and structural abnormalities, including skeletal dysplasia, arthrogryposis, spinal and limb deformities, muscular disorders, and syndromic conditions involving the MSK system. Where available, postnatal imaging, clinical outcomes, and genetic or pathological data were correlated to validate prenatal MRI findings. The selected cases were compiled as a pictorial review focusing on key imaging appearances and diagnostic considerations.
Results: The poster presents illustrative MRI examples of fetal MSK anomalies, including amniotic band sequence, thanatophoric dysplasia, Neu-Laxova syndrome, Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome, caudal regression syndrome, lymphangioma etc. Each case highlights distinctive MRI features that aid in diagnosis and differentiation. MRI proved particularly valuable for assessing bone morphology, joint positioning, muscular bulk, and associated organ abnormalities. Correlation with postnatal outcomes confirmed the accuracy and clinical relevance of prenatal MRI in defining anomaly type, severity, and extent.
Conclusions: Fetal MRI plays a key role in the evaluation of musculoskeletal anomalies, providing high-resolution multiplanar imaging that enhances diagnostic confidence and guides prenatal counseling. Recognition of characteristic imaging patterns and an understanding of developmental anatomy are essential for accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary management. This pictorial review provides an educational reference demonstrating the diagnostic value of MRI in depicting the full spectrum of fetal MSK anomalies.