ABSTRACT
The term “hydrops fetalis” denotes generalized fetal edema, a condition that differs
from localized edema confined to head, extremities, or body cavities. This report
illustrates a case of right-sided diaphragmatic hernia associated with severe edema
of the head, polyhydramnios, small hydrothorax, and ascites with an antenatal diagnosis
of hydrops fetal is. At autopsy, edema was confined to the head and neck and the peritoneal
sac. The mechanisms responsible for these forms of localized edema were obstruction
of the superior vena cava and hepatic veins, respectively. Localized fetal edema may
be confused with hydrops fetalis. Fetal edema of the head and neck may result from
obstruction of the superior vena cava by abnormal mediastinal structures.
