Hydrops fetalis: our experience in a rural setting

Abstract

The presence of two or more of the following: ascites, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, or generalized edema, defines hydrops fetalis. It occurs worldwide, but there is limited information on its incidence in Nigeria. It may follow massive intrauterine destruction of the fetal red blood cells, resulting in severe fetal anemia and subsequently anemic heart failure. This occurs in those with immune-mediated hemolysis; other notable causes are fetal arrhythmias, respiratory disorders, and inborn errors of metabolism. Early detection of at-risk pregnancy is the key to a successful outcome; hence, the importance of antenatal care cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, the case of an hour-old male newborn who presented with generalized edema, ascites, and central cyanosis is reported here. He had a normal packed cell volume and was diagnosed with nonimmune hydrops fetalis; however, the patient died 30 min later, and although an autopsy was not performed, the clinical features were suggestive of a cardiovascular cause.