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Advanced Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

oligohydramnios

Pronunciation: oh-li-go-hi-DRAM-nee-ohs

A condition characterized by decreased amniotic fluid volume, typically defined as an amniotic fluid index below 5cm.

Full Definition

Oligohydramnios is a pregnancy complication characterized by abnormally low levels of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. It is diagnosed when the amniotic fluid index (AFI) measures less than 5cm or when the deepest vertical pocket measures less than 2cm on ultrasound examination. Oligohydramnios can result from fetal urinary tract abnormalities, placental insufficiency, premature rupture of membranes, or post-term pregnancy. The condition is associated with increased risks of cord compression, fetal deformities, and complications during labor and delivery.

Usage

Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'oligo' in clinical shorthand. Ensure correct spelling of the 'hydr' prefix.

In Context

  • "Severe oligohydramnios with AFI of 2.1cm necessitated weekly monitoring and consideration of early delivery." — Maternal fetal medicine consultation
  • "The oligohydramnios was attributed to bilateral renal agenesis detected on detailed fetal anatomy scan." — Ultrasound report

Also known as

decreased amniotic fluid low amniotic fluid

Contrasted with

polyhydramnios

Don't confuse with

polyhydramnios anhydramnios

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