Transverse limb reduction and intrauterine device: Case report and review of the literature

Background Pregnancies with an intrauterine device (IUD) in situ are associated with increased maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality. No proven teratogenetic effects have been attributed to IUDs.

Case A 29-year-old-woman conceived with an IUD in place. The device was removed at 7 weeks' gestation. Her level 2 sonogram at 25 weeks' gestation revealed transverse limb reduction of the foetal right forearm. She gave birth at term to a female infant with reduction of the right forearm. The rest of the physical examination, imaging and laboratory tests, including serology and karyotype were normal.

Conclusion We present a rare case of transverse limb reduction defect associated with the presence of an IUD at the time of conception. The device had been removed in the first trimester of the pregnancy. Data from the literature are reviewed.