Nonimmune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) is defined as a generalized abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the entire body tissue and cavities unassociated with isoimmunization. After the Rh immune prophylaxis, the incidence of classic erythoblastosis
fetalis has declined but, the proportion of nonimmune types has increased relatively.
Twelve cases of NIHF seen over a six-year period are described. Of the 12 cases there were five intrauterine deaths, five nenatal deaths, one dischage against medical advice, and only one alive. Many presumed etiologic factors or associated
congenital
anomalies were noted, although in three cases (25%) no possible cause found. Of the presumed etiologic factory anomalies, two cases of gastrointestinal anomalies, two cases of twin-to-twin transfusion, one case of cardiac anomaly, one case of
tumore,
and one case of chromosomal anomaly.
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