What may happen to the lungs if oligohydramnios occurs due to renal agenesis?

Oligohydramnios, which is a condition characterized by low amniotic fluid levels, can significantly impact lung development in a fetus, particularly in cases of renal agenesis, where the kidneys fail to develop properly. The presence of adequate amniotic fluid is essential for fetal lung growth and development, as it allows for proper lung expansion and the production of pulmonary surfactant, which is crucial for keeping the alveoli open and functional after birth.

When oligohydramnios occurs due to renal agenesis, the reduced volume of amniotic fluid restricts the ability of the lungs to expand fully, leading to underdevelopment, or hypoplasia, of the lungs. This condition is referred to as pulmonary hypoplasia, which is a common consequence of oligohydramnios. As a result, the lungs may not have the required surface area or strength to support effective gas exchange after the newborn exits the uterine environment.

In this context, the physiological process explains why hypoplastic lungs are a direct implication of oligohydramnios associated with renal agenesis. Such structural lung abnormalities often lead to significant neonatal complications, including respiratory distress at birth, contributing to an increased need for respiratory support or interventions in affected infants.