omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
Congenital abdominal wall defect where organs protrude through the umbilicus covered by a membrane.
Full Definition
Omphalocele is a congenital malformation characterized by herniation of abdominal organs through a defect in the anterior abdominal wall at the base of the umbilical cord. The protruding organs are covered by a translucent membrane composed of peritoneum and amnion. This condition occurs in approximately 1 in 4,000 births and is often associated with other congenital anomalies, particularly cardiac defects and chromosomal abnormalities. In pediatric pathology, omphaloceles are classified by size and may contain liver, bowel, or other abdominal organs. The condition differs from gastroschisis in that the organs remain covered by a protective membrane.
Usage
Usage note: British spelling 'exomphalos' may appear in UK publications. Not to be confused with gastroschisis, which lacks membrane coverage.
In Context
- "The newborn presented with a large omphalocele containing liver and small bowel." — Clinical examination
- "Histological examination of the omphalocele sac revealed intact peritoneal and amniotic membranes." — Surgical pathology report