Post mortem magnetic resonance imaging is demonstrated as a supplementary method to classic pathological-anatomical autopsy in determining anomalies of the foetus. Frequently it plays a key role; primarily where the possibilities of performing autopsy are somehow limited (autolysis, ventricular dilatation). Specification of the final diagnosis subsequently enables us to improve prenatal diagnostics, both by means of magnetic resonance imaging and primarily by correlation with the prenatal ultrasound scan; this feedback improves the later method. This case report demonstrated that post mortem magnetic resonance imaging, in contrast with prenatal ultrasound examination, showed extensive haemorrhage in the germinal matrix, and also illustrated indirect symptoms testifying to agenesis of the corpus callosum. Prenatal ultrasound examination showed only hydrocephalus and absence of septum pellucidum. Pathological-anatomical autopsy of the brain was insufficient with regard to advanced autolysis and brain haemorrhage.

Department of Radiology 1st Medical Faculty Charles University Prague Czech Republic