Fetal hydrops associated with tumors

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Fetal Pathology
• Pediatric Oncology

Background:

• Fetal hydrops and tumors present a significant clinical challenge.
• This combination is associated with a high mortality rate in fetuses.
• Understanding the characteristics of this rare condition is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical and pathological features of fetuses diagnosed with both tumors and hydrops.
• To explore the pathogenesis and outcomes associated with this potentially fatal fetal condition.
• To identify prognostic factors and specific tumor types influencing survival rates.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review and analysis of personal case files were conducted.
• One hundred fifty-eight cases with adequate clinical and pathological data and described pregnancy outcomes were included.
• Data on tumor type, presenting findings, gestational age at diagnosis, and pregnancy outcome were systematically collected.

Main Results:

• Cardiac tumors were the most frequent type associated with fetal hydrops, followed by leukemia and extracardiac teratomas.
• Common presenting signs included hydramnios, palpable tumor mass, placentomegaly, and stillbirth, with most tumors detected in the third trimester.
• Survival was nil for fetuses with cardiac rhabdomyoma, neuroblastoma, brain tumors, rhabdoid tumors, or histiocytosis; placental chorangioma, pericardial teratoma, and hepatic hemangioma showed better outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The overall survival rate for fetuses with tumors and hydrops is critically low at 19%.
• Specific fetal tumors, such as placental chorangioma and hepatic hemangioma, are associated with improved survival.
• Early detection and further research into the pathogenesis of these tumors are warranted to improve fetal outcomes.