Hypoplasia refers to the incomplete development of an organ or tissue, resulting in a structure that is smaller than normal but still present. This distinguishes it from agenesis, where the structure is completely absent. In sonography, hypoplasia can be detected in various organs. Pulmonary hypoplasia, underdevelopment of the fetal lungs, can be suggested by findings such as a small chest circumference on prenatal ultrasound. Renal hypoplasia results in a small kidney that may function adequately or contribute to hypertension. Cerebellar hypoplasia shows a small cerebellum on neonatal cranial ultrasound. Identifying hypoplasia is important because it can affect organ function and may be associated with other congenital anomalies.
Sonography Term