THE INTRAVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION TIME OF FETAL HEART IN PREGNANCIES COMPLICATED BY RHESUS HAEMOLYTIC DISEASE

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Abstract
The duration and shape of the fetal QRS complex were studied in 88 [human] pregnancies complicated by rhesus isoimmunization. A clear correlation between ventricular depolarization time and Hb levels at birth was observed. A single QRS value > 4 SD above the normal mean value or a tendency to rapid increase was very suggestive of a bad prognosis, while a QRS duration < +4 SD or declining in sequential determinations reflects a temporary compensation of fetal conditions. From the QRS complex analysis a clear indication appeared of the constant and early involvement of the heart in terms of myocardial hypertrophy and/or cardiac enlargement. The sensitivity of QRS to anemia and the feasability of continuous non-invasive monitoring might allow, with the determination of bilirubin concentration in amniotic fluid, improvement in the management of rhesus hemolytic disease.