Prenatal shunting of fetal ascites in nonimmune hydrops fetalis.

A case of severe nonimmune hydrops fetalis presenting at 24 weeks gestation is presented. Ultrasound, echocardiographic, and fetal ascitic fluid studies were nondiagnostic. Because of massive fetal ascites an indwelling peritoneal amniotic cavity shunt was placed. Despite functioning of the shunt, a fetal death in utero occurred.