Ultrasonography of Discoid Adrenals in Potter's Syndrome: Report of Three Cases

ABSTRACT

Potter's syndrome, a rapidly fatal congenital disorder marked by renal agenesis, can be diagnosed in the first hours of life with real-time ultrasound. In infants with Potter's syndrome the adrenal glands assume a discoid shape and occupy the renal beds, thereby mimicking the absent kidneys. However, discoid adrenals can be distinguished from either normal or dysplastic kidneys by definitive ultrasound criteria. The ultrasound appearance of an echogenic medulla and a hypoechoic cortex in a posteriorly placed, flattened adrenal gland is quite different from the neonatal kidney with its echogenic cortex and hypoechoic renal pyramids. Early diagnosis is desirable to facilitate management of this hopeless condition. Difficulties with reliable antenatal ultrasonographic diagnosis of Potter's syndrome are discussed.