Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
polyhydramnios
Pronunciation: pol-ee-hy-DRAM-nee-os
Excessive accumulation of amniotic fluid during pregnancy.
Full Definition
A pregnancy complication characterized by excessive amniotic fluid volume, typically defined as an amniotic fluid index (AFI) greater than 25cm or deepest vertical pocket greater than 8cm. Polyhydramnios can be associated with fetal abnormalities including gastrointestinal defects, neural tube defects, or genetic conditions, as well as maternal conditions like diabetes. The condition may complicate amniocentesis procedures and can be detected during routine prenatal ultrasound examinations.
Usage
Usage note: Document severity (mild, moderate, severe) and associated findings when present.
In Context
- "Severe polyhydramnios prompted detailed fetal anatomical survey." — ultrasound report
- "Polyhydramnios may complicate amniocentesis needle placement." — procedure planning notes
Also known as
hydramnios
Contrasted with
oligohydramnios
Don't confuse with
oligohydramnios
macrosomia