Nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis and chromosome aberration.

Abstract

AbstractIn order to evaluate the role of genetic amniocentesis for the management of nonimmunologic hydrops fetalis (NIHF), the present study was performed.In 29 cases with NIHF, diagnosed antenatally using ultrasound, a genetic amniocentesis was performed. Three cases had chromosome aberration and all were 21 trisomy; one had a heart anomaly and the other 2 cases had no malformations. All 3 cases died during the neonatal period in spite of intensive perinatal management. Among NIHF, the incidence of 21 trisomy is 10%.Genetic amniocentesis is an invaluable means to detect underlying diseases in NIHF.