Amniotic band syndrome. Report of two cases and review of the literature.

The amniotic band syndrome, a complex collection of asymmetric congenital anomalies, is almost certainly an underdiagnosed entity. No two cases are exactly alike. Two cases are reported, each of which exhibits craniofacial, visceral, body wall, and limb anomalies, the common types of defects seen in this syndrome. The literature is reviewed, and the most commonly accepted theory of pathogenesis is discussed in juxtaposition to another major theory. The importance of recognizing this syndrome is stressed, since it very rarely recurs in families.