LIMB-BODY WALL COMPLEX (LBWC): A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Objective:Limb-Body Wall Complex (LBWC) is a rare and severe congenital anomaly characterized by malformations of the limbs, body wall, and internal organs. This case report presents a clinical diagnosis of LBWC, reviews the current literature, and highlights the challenges in diagnosis and management of this condition.

Case Presentation:A 21-year-old pregnant woman with no prenatal follow-up was admitted to our obstetric emergency unit at 36 weeks and 6 days of gestation for imminent delivery in breech presentation. A cesarean section was performed, and macroscopic examination revealed a male newborn with severe malformations, including absence of the abdominal wall with organ protrusion, placento-abdominal attachment with a short umbilical cord, thoracic narrowing, scoliosis, and limb deformities. Despite visible cardiac activity, the neonate died shortly after birth due to severe multisystemic defects.

Conclusion: LBWC is a rare and lethal condition with no curative treatment. Early antenatal diagnosis is essential for appropriate counseling and palliative care. The underlying etiology remains unclear, with embryological and vascular disruption theories being the most cited. This case underscores the importance of recognizing LBWC early and providing comprehensive support to affected families.