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Updated: May 24, 2026

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Fetal Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging Using a High-frequency Ultrasound (30/45MHZ) System
Published on: May 5, 2018
[Clinical study on 156 cases with hydrops fetalis]
Sheng-mou Lin1, Chen-hong Wang, Xiao-yu Zhu
1Department of Obstetrics, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
Zhonghua Fu Chan Ke Za Zhi
|February 16, 2012
Summary
Hydrops fetalis, a condition of fluid accumulation in fetus, presents with ascites as the most common ultrasound finding. Its complex etiology significantly impacts prognosis, with survival rates varying by subtype and cause.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Fetal Medicine
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
Background:
- Hydrops fetalis is a serious fetal condition characterized by generalized edema.
- Accurate diagnosis and understanding of etiology are crucial for management and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrasound characteristics of hydrops fetalis.
- To determine the common etiologies and associated diagnoses.
- To evaluate the prognosis based on etiology and hydrops subtype.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 156 cases of hydrops fetalis from September 2002 to May 2010.
- Analysis of ultrasound findings, etiological factors, and pregnancy outcomes.
- Correlation of prognosis with identified causes and hydrops subtypes.
Main Results:
- Ascites was the most frequent sonographic finding in hydrops fetalis.
- Non-immune anemia, particularly alpha-thalassemia, was the leading etiology (35.9%).
- Other significant causes included cardiac abnormalities, intrauterine infection, and twin complications.
- The overall survival rate for typical hydrops fetalis was low at 3.6%.
Conclusions:
- Ascites is the most common sonographic feature of hydrops fetalis.
- The etiology of hydrops fetalis is diverse and complex.
- Prognosis is strongly influenced by the underlying cause and the specific type of hydrops.
