Prenatal 2D ultrasonic diagnosis of fetal complete atrioventricular block and bilateral hydroceles with occult maternal SS-A.
OBJECTIVE
We present a case of fetal complete atrioventricular block, diagnosed by the M mode of two-dimensional ultrasound, that was complicated with polyhydramnios and bilateral hydrocele.


METHODS
The fetus was delivered at 38 weeks' gestation by caesarean section. Postpartum autoimmune survey disclosed positive anti-Ro antibodies (SS-A) for both the mother and the newborn. Severe neonatal bradycardia with complete atrioventricular block was identified.


CONCLUSIONS
Antenatal evaluation for a maternal history of autoimmune disease (especially systemic lupus erythematosus) and prevention of fetal bradycardia by reducing immune-mediated injuries on the cardiac conduction system are important.
Chen
Chih Yao
CY
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital and National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Wu
Yi Cheng
YC
Yang
Man Li
ML
D000328:Adult; D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear / Q000097:blood*; D001919:Bradycardia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000196:embryology / Q000503:physiopathology; D002585:Cesarean Section; D005260:Female; D006327:Heart Block / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000196:embryology*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D006831:Polyhydramnios / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000276:immunology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D006848:Testicular Hydrocele / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000196:embryology*; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal
D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear; C035356:SS-A antibodies