[Hydrops fetalis and G-6-PD deficiency].

BACKGROUND

Antenatal manifestation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is uncommon.

METHODS

A male was born by caesarian section at 34 weeks of GA for hydrops fetalis (HF). Fetal ultrasonography showed hydrops fetalis for the first time at 24 weeks of GA. All investigations were normal, except moderate anemia (Hb: 11.5 g/dl) and important erythroblastosis (67%) in the fetal blood sampling at 25 weeks. HF spontaneously resolved, until caesarian section at 34 weeks for recurrence of HF. Hydrops and neonatal anemia were successfully treated with pleural and peritoneal aspiration and blood transfusion. At the age of 4 months, investigations showed low levels of G-6-PD activity. At the age of 12 months, the child's growth and development appeared to be appropriate.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of G-6-PD deficiency must be suspected when HF due to anemia occurs in a population at risk; it could be confirmed by an enzyme study of fetal red blood cells.