What is hydrops fetalis?
Hydrops fetalis is a severe, life-threatening problem of severe edema (swelling) in the fetus and newborn. It is also called hydrops. There are two types of hydrops: Immune – results when the mother’s immune system causes breakdown of red blood cells in the fetus. This is the most dangerous problem of blood group incompatibility between the mother and baby. Non-immune – the most common type; can result when diseases or complications interfere with the baby’s ability to manage fluid.
