Uncommon Association Between Chronic Malaria and Hydrops Fetalis

Abstract

An association was recorded in 11 cases between hydrops fetalis and maternal chronic malaria. The association was proved essentially by exclusion of other causes of hydrops and by the synchronous occurrence of the hydropic changes after a recent attack of malaria. P. falciparum was detected in seven mothers and P. vivax in three. Although the parasite was not demonstrated in the fetal peripheral blood, it was felt that the association might be the result of a direct effect of toxin released during the febrile attacks. Fetal ascites was recorded in all cases, but hydro thorax was present only in three fetuses. Hydramnios was found in three fetuses and oligohydramnios in four. Routine blood smears for prenatal detection of malaria followed by appropriate treatment are recommended to help prevent hydrops fetalis.SMA Thabet, Uncommon Association Between Chronic Malaria and Hydrops Fetalis. 1984; 4(4): 325-327