Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026
08:04
Murine Fetal Echocardiography
Published on: February 15, 2013
Hydrops due to myocarditis in a fetus
K Benirschke1, W H Swartz, G Leopold
1Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla.
The American Journal of Cardiovascular Pathology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Fetal hydrops, characterized by fluid accumulation, was diagnosed in a fetus. Post-abortion analysis revealed Coxsackie virus B5 myocarditis as a potential cause, a finding previously undocumented in fetuses.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Fetal Medicine
- Virology
Background:
- Fetal hydrops is a serious condition characterized by generalized edema in a fetus.
- Etiologies of fetal hydrops are diverse, often requiring extensive investigation.
- Advanced maternal age is a risk factor for various fetal complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the etiology of fetal hydrops in a fetus diagnosed at 18 weeks gestation.
- To document pathological findings in fetal and placental tissues.
- To explore potential infectious causes of fetal hydrops.
Main Methods:
- Sonographic evaluation of the fetus at 18 weeks gestation.
- Documentation of fetal effusions and ascites.
- Post-abortion examination of fetal and placental tissues.
- Serological testing for maternal antibodies to Coxsackie virus B5.
Main Results:
- Sonography revealed fetal hydrops with ascites, pleural, and pericardial effusions.
- Fetal and placental examination confirmed myocarditis and thyroiditis.
- Maternal serology showed a onefold rise in antibodies to Coxsackie virus B5.
Conclusions:
- The findings tentatively suggest Coxsackie virus B5 myocarditis as a cause of fetal hydrops.
- Myocarditis associated with Coxsackie virus B5 is a newly identified lesion in fetuses.
- This case highlights the importance of considering viral etiologies in unexplained fetal hydrops.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:21Myocarditis I: Introduction
Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
01:14Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Myocarditis: Comprehensive Medical ManagementMyocarditis, the heart muscle inflammation, requires a comprehensive medical management strategy that addresses the underlying cause, provides supportive care, manages symptoms, and reduces cardiac workload.Infections and Autoimmune CausesAdminister appropriate antimicrobial therapy when an infectious agent causes myocarditis. For instance, penicillin treats infections caused by Group A Streptococcus. In cases where autoimmune processes are...
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
01:30Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
01:29Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...