Emergent fetal intracardiac transfusion for thrombocytopenia and acute hypovolemia due to cordocentesis-associated hemorrhage in parvovirus-induced hydrops.

OBJECTIVES

To demonstrate the utility of fetal intracardiac transfusion to correct acute fetal hypovolemia and thrombocytopenia in fetal Parvovirus infection.

METHODS

Intracardiac transfusion in a 19-week gestation was indicated due to cordocentesis-associated hemorrhage.

RESULTS

Intracardiac transfusion resulted in correction of acute bradycardia, anemia and thrombocytopenia and persistent umbilical cord hemorrhage following attempted intravascular transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

This case illustrates the importance of anticipating both thrombocytopenia and anemia in fetal Parvovirus infection and how an intracardiac approach can be employed in the setting of acute, life-threatening hemorrhage.