Prognostic factors for survival of 62 fetuses and neonates with nonimmune h
ydrops fetalis (NIHF) were studied retrospectively. Twenty-eight infants su
rvived greater than or equal to 28 days which is 45% for all fetuses and ne
wborns diagnosed with NIHF and 61% for liveborns with unresolved NIHF. Univ
ariate analysis identified that mortality was associated with the presence
of greater than or equal to 2 serous cavity effusions and a need for chest
compressions at birth. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed
that the presence of greater than or equal to 2 serous cavity effusions was
significantly associated with mortality from NIHF <28 days after birth [OR
= 48.2 (CI 3.6, 662.9) (p < 0.004)]. We conclude that, compared to publish
ed cases from the 1970s and early 1980s, survival of liveborns with NIHF se
ems improved. The decrease in stillbirths is more notable. The severity of
hydrops at birth is the key determinant for survival.