Hydrops fetalis with septated cystic hygroma

Abstract

Hydrops fetalis is excess accumulation of fluid in the fetus, and fetal cystic hygroma is a manifestation of early lymphatic obstruction. Depending on the severity and cause of hydrops, there may be anasarca of fetus, placentomegaly, ascites, pleural effusions, and/or pericardial effusions. Fetal hydrops and cystic hygroma can be diagnosed in the second trimester of gestation and is associated with a higher incidence of aneuploidy and high mortality. Previously, most cases of hydrops were caused by severe erythroblastosis fetalis secondary to Rh isoimmunization. At present, hydrops fetalis is caused by other conditions and is known as nonimmune hydrops. Here, we present a case of an 18-week pregnancy with fetal cystic hygroma and nonimmune hydrops fetalis.