Eduvest - Journal of Universal Studies
Vol. 6 No. 6 (2026): Eduvest - Journal of Universal Studies

A Rare Case of Limb Body Wall Complex Associated with Environmental Mercury Exposure and Maternal Herpes Infection

I Gde Hary Eka Adnyana (RSUD Patut Patuh Patju, West Lombok)
Dwi Andhika Panjarwanto (Brawijaya University)
Prima Aulia Achsan (Brawijaya University)
Agus Rusdhy Hariawan Hamid (Mataram University)
Ario Danianto (Mataram University)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Jun 2026

Abstract

Limb body wall complex (LBWC) is a rare and fatal congenital anomaly involving severe defects of the body wall, spine, limbs, and umbilical cord. This study aims to report a rare case of LBWC associated with environmental mercury exposure and maternal herpes infection, to review the literature on LBWC pathogenesis and risk factors, and to generate hypotheses for future etiological research. Early prenatal diagnosis is crucial; however, cases may be detected late in settings with limited antenatal care. We report a 37-year-old multiparous woman in whom LBWC was diagnosed by ultrasonography at 24–25 weeks' gestation. Imaging revealed a large abdominal wall defect with exposed intestinal loops, spinal deformity, limb dysplasia, and a short umbilical cord — findings that were confirmed postnatally. Maternal assessment identified active HSV-1/2 infection and residence near gold-mining activities, suggesting possible environmental mercury exposure. LBWC remains a devastating and fatal congenital condition. This case emphasizes the critical role of early antenatal screening and highlights the need for further research exploring possible associations between LBWC, maternal infections, and environmental exposures, particularly mercury exposure in gold-mining areas.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

edv

Publisher

Subject

Aerospace Engineering Computer Science & IT Health Professions Neuroscience Social Sciences

Description

Eduvest - Journal of Universal Studies is a double blind peer-reviewed academic journal and open access to multidiciplinary fields. The journal is published monthly by Green Publisher Indonesia. Eduvest - Journal of Universal Studies provides a means for sustained discussion of relevant issues that ...