Wharton Jelly Hair in a Case of Umbilical Cord Stricture and Fetal Death

The document reported a unique case of fetal death caused by umbilical cord stricture with hair growth in the Wharton jelly. A 28-year-old woman experienced severe fetal growth restriction and oligohydramnios at 23 weeks of gestation, leading to fetal death. Autopsy revealed hypocoiling and a stricture in the umbilical cord, with microscopic examination showing hair follicles and capillary formation in the fibrotic Wharton jelly. This unusual development likely contributed to the compromised fetoplacental circulation and subsequent fetal demise. This case highlighted the importance of thorough histologic examination to determine the cause of fetal death.