Prenatal diagnosis and natural history of fetuses presenting with pleural effusion

Prenat Diagn. 2011 May;31(5):496-9. doi: 10.1002/pd.2726. Epub 2011 Mar 4.

Abstract

Objective: To describe the natural history of fetuses presenting with pleural effusion.

Methods: Between January 2005 and December 2009 all fetuses diagnosed with pleural effusion were followed up. Fetuses were divided into three groups: I, isolated pleural effusion; II, associated structural anomalies but normal karyotype; and III, chromosomal anomalies. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between prenatal ultrasound findings and perinatal death.

Results: Fifty-six fetuses were included in the study. Associated structural or chromosomal anomalies occurred in 75.0% (42/56) of cases. Bilateral pleural effusion and fetal hydrops were associated with each other (p < 0.01) and with perinatal death (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that only the presence of associated abnormalities was a statistical determinant of perinatal death (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.48-5.64; p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Fetal pleural effusion is often associated with other abnormalities, and this association has poor perinatal outcome.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / diagnosis*
  • Abnormalities, Multiple / mortality
  • Adult
  • Chromosome Aberrations*
  • Female
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Hydrops Fetalis / diagnosis*
  • Hydrops Fetalis / etiology
  • Hydrops Fetalis / mortality
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases / etiology
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases / mortality
  • Perinatal Mortality
  • Pleural Effusion / diagnosis*
  • Pleural Effusion / etiology
  • Pleural Effusion / mortality
  • Pregnancy
  • Survival Rate
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal*