hydramnios

hydramnios /hy·dram·ni·os/ (hi-dram´ne-os) polyhydramnios.

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hy·dram·ni·os (h-drmn-s)

n.

The presence of an excessive amount of amniotic fluid. Also called polyhydramnios.

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hydramnios

[hīdram′nē·əs]

Etymology: Gk, hydor + amnos, lamb's caul

an abnormal condition of pregnancy characterized by an excess of amniotic fluid. It occurs in less than 1% of pregnancies and is diagnosed by palpation, ultrasound, or radiographic examination. It is associated with maternal disorders, including toxemia of pregnancy and diabetes mellitus, and some fetal disorders, including anomalies of the GI tract, respiratory tract, and cardiovascular system, which may interfere with normal exchange of amniotic fluid. Fetal hydrops and multiple gestation are also associated with the condition. The incidence of premature rupture of the membranes, premature labor, and perinatal mortality is increased. Periodic amniocentesis may be necessary. Also called hydramnion, polyhydramnios. Compare oligohydramnios.

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hydramnios

excess of amniotic fluid. Commonly associated with fetal deformity. A high incidence in cattle-bison hybrids. Occurs in cows and ewes.

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hydramnios

Polyhydramnios Obstetrics The presence or ≥ 2 liters of amniotic fluid; 20% of fetal malformations are accompanied by hydramnios, 20% are associated with anencephaly, 10% with multiparity, 5-10% with DM; other conditions linked to hydramnios include esophageal and duodenal atresia, hydrops fetalis, hydrocephalus, spina bifida, achondroplasia, toxemia, toxins–eg, lithium therapy; ± 50% have no fetal or maternal defects