What structure (arrows) is shown in the eye of this 18-week fetus?

(Images courtesy of Mayank Chowdhury, MD)

The vascular structure seen is the hyaloid artery, which is considered a normal finding until 32 weeks' gestation. Presence of this vessel beyond 32 weeks' gestation is associated with visual impairment during neonatal life, with possible development of cataract.

Pregnancy and Birth

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QUIZ: These images reveal a specific structure of the fetal eye. Can you identify it?

Image IQ: Anatomy of the Fetal Eye