Skip to main content
Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

mirror syndrome

Maternal condition that mirrors fetal hydrops with edema and hypertension.

Full Definition

A rare maternal complication that develops in association with severe fetal hydrops, characterized by maternal edema, hypertension, and proteinuria that 'mirrors' the fetal condition. Also known as Ballantyne syndrome, this condition typically occurs in the third trimester and may be mistaken for preeclampsia. The syndrome is thought to result from placental dysfunction associated with the underlying fetal condition causing hydrops. Treatment involves addressing the fetal condition when possible, and the maternal symptoms typically resolve after delivery or resolution of fetal hydrops.

Usage

Usage note: Capitalize 'Ballantyne syndrome' when using the eponymous form.

In Context

  • "The development of mirror syndrome complicated the management of fetal hydrops." — Case report
  • "Maternal edema and hypertension suggested Ballantyne syndrome in this case of severe fetal anemia." — Clinical assessment

Also known as

Ballantyne syndrome maternal mirror syndrome

Don't confuse with

preeclampsia HELLP syndrome

Editors from these organizations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON