Genetic determinism and hemispheric influence in hair whorl formation.

Background: The mechanisms determining the laterality and the rotation direction of hair whorls are unknown. Here we report observations on twins investigating the genetic bases of whorl pattern formation. Knowing that vortex phenomena may depend on geographic effects, we also provide comparative data on whorls from children born in the Northern hemisphere (France) versus children born in the Southern hemisphere (Chile).

Who needs prenatal counselling with a pediatric surgeon? Experience from a large tertiary care university hospital.

Objectives: To describe our experience with prenatal counselling for surgical anomalies in a large volume center. The secondary aim is to suggest a list of prenatal abnormalities warranting counselling by a pediatric surgeon.

Methods: We reviewed all prenatal counselling consultations performed by the pediatric surgery team between January 1st, 2015 and December 31st, 2016.