Wigglesworth developed a simple flow diagram to help guide investigations into a stillborn fetus with hydrops fetalis.
Finding in the Fetus
Consider
pallor and signs of anemia
hematologic disorder, infection
dysmorphic features
chromosomal disorder
nuchal edema
chromosomal disorder (Down's syndrome)
fluid accumulations in thorax and/or abdomen
disorder affecting lung, heart, liver, kidneys
cardiac anomalies
cardiac causes
hepatosplenomegaly
metabolic disorder, infection
tumor
fetal neoplasm
Early investigations should include:
(1) direct antiglobulin test, for distinguishing immune from nonimmune hydrops
(2) examination of the placenta
(3) radiographs of the bones
(4) tissue for chromosomal studies
(5) bone marrow examination
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Specialty: Clinical Laboratory, Pedatrics
ICD-10: ,
