MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Hydrops fetalis

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Hydrops fetalis

Hydrops fetalis is a serious condition of the fetus or newborn. It is a condition where abnormal amounts of fluid build up in two or more body areas causing swelling. Severe swelling can interfere with how the body organs work and often results in death of the infant shortly before or after delivery.

Update Date: 4/3/2008

Updated by: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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