Premature closure of the foramen ovale as a cause of intrauterine fetal ascites.

Abstract

Fluid collections are readily evaluated by ultrasound. Intrauterine fetal ascites is a rare abnormality particularly suited to evaluation by ultrasound. Premature closure in utero of the foramen ovale is an unusual cause of fetal ascites. This report illustrates and discusses premature foramen ovale closure causing intrauterine fetal ascites.