Current opinion in management of hydrops fetalis.

Roh, Cheong Rae

Review

Korean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 2008;51(4):367-382.
Published online April 1, 2008.

Current opinion in management of hydrops fetalis.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center,Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. crroh@smc.samsung.co.kr

Abstract

Hydrops fetalis is a morbid condition caused by Rh alloimmunization or a wide variety of fetal, placental, and maternal diseases. Mortality is high and depends on the gestational age at the time of occurrence and underlying etiology. Recent advances in obstetric ultrasound, prenatal diagnostics have made it possible to differentiate various etiologies involved. It is also possible to treat some of these fetuses prenatally. However, the majority of cases diagnosed remain untreatable. Early diagnosis of untreatable cases allows parents to make informed choices about subsequent management. Etiologies, maternal complications, diagnostic approach, treatment plans and prognosis are covered in this review.

Key Words: Hydrops fetalis, Alloimmunization, Nonimmune hydrops