Emergent fetal intracardiac transfusion for thrombocytopenia and acute hypovolemia due to cordocentesis-associated hemorrhage in parvovirus-induced hydrops.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the utility of fetal intracardiac transfusion to correct acute fetal hypovolemia and thrombocytopenia in fetal Parvovirus infection. METHODS: Intracardiac transfusion in a 19-week gestation was indicated due to cordocentesis-associated hemorrhage. RESULTS: Intracardiac transfusion resulted in correction of acute bradycardia, anemia and thrombocytopenia and persistent umbilical cord hemorrhage following attempted intravascular transfusion. CONCLUSIONS: This case illustrates the importance of anticipating both thrombocytopenia and anemia in fetal Parvovirus infection and how an intracardiac approach can be employed in the setting of acute, life-threatening hemorrhage.