Before proceeding further it is important to understand why an ultrasound scan is offered at this time. Many people reply to this question with the answer that it is to see the baby. In addition to this, the detailed scan at this time is directed at detecting abnormalities - i.e. picking up gross defects in the baby that may or may not be compatible with life, that may require surgery once the baby is born or which might cause prolonged suffering or dependence into adult life. Knowing about these major abnormalities gives parents the option of using this information in one of two ways. Either it allows them time to come to terms with these findings and prepare themselves for the baby's birth, or it gives an opportunity to consider if they wish to continue with the pregnancy.
Many people choose termination of pregnancy in the presence of major abnormalities.
In addition to detecting major abnormalities, ultrasound sometimes detects so-called 'soft markers' or findings which in themselves do the baby no harm, but may be associated with an increased risk of another abnormality. The presence of a soft marker is not diagnostic of this other abnormality, it is just a noted association in a number of cases. CPC's are a soft marker for a gene abnormality called Edward's syndrome. The actual cysts themselves do not cause brain damage or other problems - ever. This is a gene abnormality where the baby has extra gene material of chromosome number 18.