An abnormally low volume of amniotic fluid (AF) surrounding the fetus; measured as
amniotic fluid index (AFI) of less than 5 cm. Ultrasound is used to measure the amniotic
fluid in four quadrants of the uterus and normal AFI is considered to be between...
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An abnormally low volume of amniotic fluid (AF) surrounding the fetus; measured as
amniotic fluid index (AFI) of less than 5 cm. Ultrasound is used to measure the amniotic
fluid in four quadrants of the uterus and normal AFI is considered to be between about 8
and 18 cm.
Aetiology
•Decreased fetal urine production or excretion
•Excessive amniotic fluid loss
•Premature rupture of membranes
•Congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract of the fetus
•Placental insufficiency
•Twin–twin transfusion syndrome
•Post-maturity
•Maternal high blood pressure
•Idiopathic
•Earlier it is; poorer is the fetal prognosis
Functions
•Allows movement for proper musculoskeletal development
•Mechanical shock absorber
•Thermoregulation
•Helps in development of normal respiratory system
•Oligohydramnios in early pregnancy may lead underdevelopment of fetal lung tissue
(pulmonary hypoplasia) and pulmonary arterial hyperetension
•Limb defects (Club foot and hands)
•It also has nutritional value (fetus swallows
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