This paper concerns the case of an anencephalus male fetus with partial trisomy 20p product of a maternal translocation 46,XX, t(15;20) (p11.2;p12), ascertained by prenatal diagnosis. A cytogenetic review of previous cases is presented. Several hypotheses are discussed in order to explain the recurrent abortions of the mother and the aetiology of anencephaly in this last pregnancy.