Description

Hydrops fetalis can be diagnosed if certain findings are seen on obstetrical imaging studies.


 

Criteria for classic hydrops:

(1) serous fluid in 2 or more body cavities (left pleural, right pleural, pericardial, peritoneal)

(2) skin edema involving scalp and/or trunk

 

Criteria for advanced hydrops:

(1) anasarca (massive skin edema and serous fluid in all body cavities)

(2) thickened and edematous placenta, typically > 5 cm thick (placentomegaly or placental hydrops)

 

Criteria for early hydrops:

(1) serous fluid in 1 body cavity (left pleural, right pleural, pericardial, peritoneal)

 


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