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Human hydrops fetalis, a severe and often life-threatening condition, represents a culmination of diverse pathophysiological processes resulting in abnormal fluid accumulation within the fetal tissues and body cavities. Characterized by generalized edema and profound swelling, this condition typically arises from a spectrum of underlying etiologies, prominently including haemolytic disease of the newborn, immune-mediated reactions, and various congenital anomalies. The intricate interplay of factors such as incompatible blood group antigens between the mother and fetus, leading to haemolysis and subsequent anaemia, can trigger the cascade of events culminating in hydrops fetalis. The cardiovascular system, liver, and spleen are particularly vulnerable to the deleterious effects of fluid overload, further exacerbating the severity of the condition. Clinically, the affected fetus may exhibit polyhydramnios, placentome Aly, and hydramnios, which can be detected through advanced imaging techniques. The diagnostic challenges associated with hydrops fetalis necessitate a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, Paediatricians, geneticists, and imaging specialists. Management strategies vary depending on the underlying cause, ranging from intrauterine blood transfusions to advanced fetal interventions. Despite these interventions, the prognosis for hydrops fetalis remains guarded, and the condition often carries a high mortality rate. Advances in prenatal screening, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic interventions continue to be crucial in improving outcomes for affected individuals, underscoring the ongoing need for research and clinical collaboration to unravel the complexities of this enigmatic and potentially devastating fetal disorder.
