A guide to the recognition of skeletal disorders in the fetus.

The discovery of fetal skeletal abnormality on prenatal US mandates an extended study of the fetus. This extended examination includes specific views and measurements of the fetal skeleton. Lethality can be predicted if severe pulmonary hypoplasia is present. Specific diagnosis of a fetal osteochondrodysplasia is difficult; a collaborative approach among obstetric, neonatal and genetic services is necessary to provide the parents with all available information regarding the pregnancy. Pediatric radiologists who have experience in radiologic assessment of osteochondrodystrophies of infants and children can provide expertise in this area.