Severe fetomaternal hemorrhage confirmed and quantified by flow cytometry using anti fetal hemoglobin antibodies

Case report of massive fetomaternal hemorrhage and a guideline for acute neonatal management

Massive fetomaternal hemorrhage resulting in profound anemia and shock is associated with high perinatal morbidity and mortality. Although diagnosis before delivery is difficult, the clinical index of suspicion rises when a woman presents with history of decreased or absent fetal movements and antenatal monitoring shows a sinusoidal rhythm strip. The diagnosis can be made quickly by demonstration of fetal red blood cells in the maternal circulation and there is consistent recommendation in the literature to immediately order a Kleihauer-Betke test. Clinical manifestations of a fetomaternal hemorrhage depend on the volume of blood lost and the rate with which it occurred. The severely compromised anemic infant indicative of acute hemorrhage will be pale with gasping respirations and signs of circulatory shock. Immediate intervention with volume resuscitation is crucial for optimal outcome. This article describes a patient with massive fetomaternal hemorrhage and subsequent devastating neonatal complications. The focus of this article is to provide clinical guidance for the management and care of the infant affected by profound anemia.

Diagnosis, surveillance, and treatment of the anemic fetus using middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity measurement

The in utero course of the anemic fetus has improved dramatically, owing to early diagnosis and cordocentesis transfusion. In utero invasive procedures such as amnio- and cordocentesis have become important modalities in the evaluation and treatment of anemic fetuses. However, they carry risks for both the mother and fetus. A valid and sensitive noninvasive means of following the anemic fetus is the evaluation of changes in the middle cerebral artery peak systolic flow velocity (MCA-PSV). This is a sensitive tool for both the evaluation of fetal anemia and response to treatment. Intracerebral vessels respond earliest to the fetal anemic state, and are readily accessible for ultrasound examination. We describe the methodology and evolving clinical applications of MCA-PSV measurement in the fetus, through an overview of the literature describing the development and application of MCA-PSV measurement in fetuses at risk of fetal anemia of various immune and nonimmune etiologies, illustrated by index cases from our center. MCA-PSV measurement is essential in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of cases of fetal anemia. The use of this modality lessens the need for invasive procedures. The method is readily accessible and should be integrated into the repertoire of all obstetric ultrasound centers.