First AD

Second AD

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

News

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

Image IQ: Anatomy of the Fetal Eye

Joe Antony, MD