Broadsheet number 56: Mechanisms of fetal loss

The most significant task of the pathologist examining a fetal death is, if possible, the provision of an explanation for the event, which will allow the clinical attendants to counsel the family in an informed and relevant m anner. In some cases, no adequate explanation will be possible, though many conditions will be excluded and the importance of this exercise is worth e mphasising. Often, however, a combination of fetal, maternal or placental c onditions can be found and a full or partial explanation offered, and it is the purpose of this broadsheet to highlight some of these conditions and p rovide suggestions as to sources of further practical help.