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
Specialty: Clinical Laboratory, Pedatrics
ICD-10: ,