Adenosine triphosphate for cardioversion of supraventricular tachycardia in two hydropic fetuses

Objective: We performed a retrospective study to check the effectiveness of adenosine triphosphate (Striadyne) for cardioversion of fetal supraventric ular tachycardia (SVT) and to evaluate neonatal outcome after prenatal trea tment of severe SVT with fetal hydrops. Methods: Two hydropic fetuses with SVT were treated with Striadyne injection into the umbilical vein, as an ad ditional treatment to the digoxin given intravenously to the mother, Both f etuses were in severe condition, with ultrasound, Doppler and laboratory si gns of fetal distress and congestive heart failure. Results: Sinus rhythm w as obtained in both cases for different periods of time, without side effec ts of Striadyne. The children survived. There were severe cardiac and neuro logic problems after delivery. Conclusions: Striadyne was an effective drug in converting SVT to the sinus rhythm in hydropic fetuses. Digoxin was use less in these fetuses in spite of the therapeutic level which was obtained in both mothers. We suppose that fetal SVT causing fetal hydrops could be t he reason of brain damage, and intensive antiarrhythmic treatment seemed to be necessary. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.