Prepartum Diagnosis of Traumatic Fetal-Maternal Hemorrhage

James A. O'Brien; Donald R. Coustan; Don B. Singer; Marshall A. Taylor

doi:10.1055/s-2007-999952

American Journal of Perinatology, Table of Contents

Am J Perinatol 1985; 2(3): 214-216
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-999952

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Prepartum Diagnosis of Traumatic Fetal-Maternal Hemorrhage

James A. O'Brien, Donald R. Coustan, Don B. Singer, Marshall A. Taylor

Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Brown University Program in Medicine, Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The diagnosis of significant fetal-maternal hemorrhage due to abdominal trauma was made upon detection of fetal red cells in the maternal circulation before delivery, and prompted immediate intervention despite an equivocal fetal monitor tracing. His-tologic examination of the placenta identified the area of disruption of the fetal circulation, and the clinical condition of the neonate confirmed the diagnosis. A test for fetal-maternal hemorrhage would be appropriate in the evaluation of any pregnant woman sustaining trauma to the abdomen.

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