Hydrops Fetalis | Symptoms & Causes
What are the symptoms of hydrops fetalis?
In most cases, hydrops fetalis does not cause symptoms in the pregnant person and is usually found during fetal imaging. Occasionally however, the following symptoms may occur:
- Decreased fetal movement
- Excessive amniotic fluid, which can cause shortness of breath (dyspnea) or contractions
- Mirror syndrome that can present with maternal leg edema, pulmonary edema, pain in the upper abdomen, headache, and in some cases, eclampsia
Mirror syndrome that can present with maternal leg edema , pulmonary edema, pain in the upper abdomen, headache, and in some cases, eclampsia.
What causes hydrops fetalis?
Immune hydrops is caused by blood-type incompatibility between the pregnant person and the fetus (also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN)). Non-immune hydrops fetalis can be caused by several conditions, including:
- Severe fetal anemia unrelated to HDFN
- Infections present at birth
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Heart defects or lung defects
- Skeletal disorders
- Birth defects and congenital anomalies
- Metabolic disorders
- Genetic conditions
- Fetal or placental tumors
Hydrops Fetalis | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is hydrops fetalis diagnosed?
Hydrops fetalis can be evaluated through various tests during pregnancy, including:
- Prenatal ultrasound
- Fetal MRI
- Fetal blood sampling
- Fetal echocardiography
- Amniocentesis
How is hydrops fetalis treated?
Treatment for hydrops fetalis depends on its underlying cause. Managing hydrops during pregnancy can be challenging, and in some cases, fetal surgery may be needed to reverse the condition or prevent it from getting worse. In other cases, an early delivery may be recommended. After delivery, care may include:
- Extra oxygen or mechanical ventilation for breathing support
- Using a needle to drain excessive fluid from the lungs or abdomen
- Medication to help the kidneys remove excess fluid
What is the outlook for infants with hydrops fetalis?
The severe swelling associated with hydrops can overwhelm multiple organs, making it a life-threatening condition. However, the chances of survival can be greatly improved with the right treatment, depending on the specific cause and timely intervention.
How we care for hydrops fetalis at Boston Children’s Hospital
The Fetal Care and Surgery Center brings together experts in maternal-fetal medicine, genetics, radiology, neonatology, fetal surgery, and other areas to provide comprehensive care for hydrops fetalis during and after pregnancy. We focus on early and accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and personalized care plans tailored to each patient. This means access to cutting-edge care from a dedicated team of experts working together to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Our team-based approach and commitment to research and innovation ensure that every family receives the highest level of care and support.
