NON-IMMUNOLOGIC HYDROPS FETALIS - A REVIEW OF 61 CASES

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • review article
    • Vol. 59  (3) , 347-352
Abstract
Human cases [61] of nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis were studied. Incidence of nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis, 1/3748 births, was unchanged in 2 decades. Mortality from nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis remained high (98%). Polyhydramnios (75%), anemia (45%) and preeclampsia (29%) were the most common prenatal maternal complications; postpartum hemorrhage and/or difficulty with placental delivery occurred in 64%. Ultrasound examination was always successful in detecting the hydropic state. Many presumed etiologic factors were noted, although in 38% no possible cause was found. A major congenital anomaly was present in 41%. Obstetric and neonatal care of nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis must be improved. If nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis is diagnosed during the investigation of polyhydramnios, considered should be given to early delivery in the interest of the fetus.