Antenatal Isolated Fetal Ascites
Ashish Jain, Harshiba
Abstract
Isolated fetal ascites is a rare finding, as it is usually a part of hydrops fetalis. Ascites may develop because of various pathologies, and some of these overlap with that of hydrops fetalis. In the absence of a definite underlying factor, the prognosis and outcome are usually excellent, as it tends to resolve spontaneously in the antenatal or postnatal period. A thorough workup is important for optimal antenatal (fetal therapy) or postnatal management (surgical) to improve the survival rate.
Structural anomalies are found to be the most common cause of isolated fetal ascites, of which gastrointestinal tract anomalies are the most frequent (commonly meconium peritonitis). The other structural anomalies include genitourinary, cardiac, thoracic, or lymphatic anomalies. Congenital infections and genetics could be the other causes. Fetal ascites presenting after 24 weeks of gestation has a more favorable prognosis than that presenting earlier. Timely and accurate diagnosis will help in proper parental counseling.
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