A variety of conditions, varying from those that are incompatible with life to those that are amenable to treatment, are associated with hydrops fetalis. Sonography has an important role in the evaluation of this disorder. The following maternal and fetal features are assessed for their presence and extent.

 

·         Fetal  ascites, pleural effusion or pericardial effusion

·         Skin thickness (fetal anasarca)

·         Maternal hydrammos or oligohydrammos

·         Abnormally thick placenta >6 cm

·         Fetal heart rate and rhythm

·         Search for fetal anatomical abnormality

·         Consider karyotyping procedure.