Nonimmune hydrops fetalis caused by a massive fetomaternal hemorrhage associated with elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels. A case report
Downing, G.J.; Kilbride, H.W.; Yeast, J.D.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 35(4): 444-446
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 1693688 Document Number: 357611
Chronic fetomaternal hemorrhage led to the development of fetal anemia and nonimmune hydrops fetalis in a term neonate. Antenatal maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels were abnormally elevated, with normal amniotic fluid levels. Kleihauer-Betke staining was performed as part of the evaluation. Serial ultrasound examinations can be useful for unexplained elevations in maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein because of the associated increased fetal loss in those pregnancies. If fetomaternal hemorrhage is identified, serial ultrasound examinations are indicated for the detection of fetal hydrops.