In Utero Intervention for Isolated Fetal Pleural Effusion: A Case Report

Abstract

Fetal pleural effusion is a rare condition easily diagnosed by antenatal ultrasound. It can be classified into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary pleural effusion is mainly attributed to defective lymphatic drainage in the fetus. Secondary pleural effusion can be caused by conditions that affect the fetal cardiac function, fetal anemia, fetal infections, chromosomal aberrations, genetic diseases, or congenital malformations that disrupt the lungs and mediastinal architecture. The clinical course is variable depending on the severity, underlying cause, gestational age at diagnosis, and the presence or absence of other congenital abnormalities. We present a case of isolated fetal pleural effusion where in utero therapy included thoracocentesis followed by the insertion of a thoracoamniotic shunt.