What are the two types of hydrops associated with different causes?

Hydrops fetalis is a serious condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the fetal compartments. Understanding the two primary types of hydrops is crucial for diagnosis and management. The two types are immune hydrops and non-immune hydrops.

Immune hydrops is primarily caused by Rh incompatibility or other blood group incompatibilities between the mother and fetus, leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition arises when maternal antibodies attack the fetal red blood cells, causing severe anemia, heart failure, and subsequent fluid accumulation.

Non-immune hydrops, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of causes. These can include cardiac anomalies, chromosomal abnormalities, infections (such as parvovirus B19), twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and structural malformations. Unlike immune hydrops, non-immune hydrops does not arise from immune-mediated processes.

Distinguishing between these two types is essential for determining the underlying cause and guiding appropriate management strategies. This differentiation highlights the importance of prenatal screening and thorough investigation in cases of hydrops fetalis.