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polyhydramnios
Pronunciation: pol-ee-hi-DRAM-nee-os
Excessive amniotic fluid during pregnancy that may indicate fetal abnormalities and can lead to neonatal complications.
Full Definition
Polyhydramnios is characterized by an abnormally large amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, typically defined as an amniotic fluid index greater than 25 cm. This condition may be associated with fetal gastrointestinal abnormalities, neural tube defects, genetic syndromes, or maternal diabetes. Infants born from pregnancies complicated by polyhydramnios may require NICU care for respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, or underlying congenital anomalies.
Usage
Usage note: Opposite of oligohydramnios; ensure proper spelling and distinction in medical documentation.
In Context
- "Maternal polyhydramnios prompted fetal ultrasound evaluation revealing esophageal atresia in the newborn." — prenatal diagnostic report
- "The infant's feeding difficulties were anticipated given the history of severe polyhydramnios." — NICU admission assessment
Also known as
excessive amniotic fluid
hydramnios
Contrasted with
oligohydramnios
normal amniotic fluid volume
Don't confuse with
oligohydramnios
normal fluid volume