Abstract
Introduction Fetal hydrocephalus (FHC) occurs as a result of excessive production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or CSF absorption or circulation disorders.We aim to evaluate risk factors, and to analyze the management and results in pregnant women diagnosed with FHC. Material and Methods Pregnant women diagnosed with prenatal FHC in the perinatology center between January 2015-December 2020 were included in the study, retrospectively. Demographic datas and anomalies accompanying FHC were analyzed. The frequency of fetal magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), amniocentesis and/or karyotype analysis rates, and termination frequency were examined. Results A total of 117 patients with intrauterine FHC were included. The median age and gestational week were 25.5 years and 21+4 weeks. Isolated FHC was observed in 32.5%. The frequency of fetal USG use is 97.4%; MRI was performed only in 3 (2.6%) patients. The amniocentesis and karyotype analysis were performed in 17.1% and 15.4%. While the presence of isolated FHC or accompanying anomalies has no effect on performing amniocentesis and karyotype analysis; it was determined that karyotype analysis was applied significantly less in case of NTD diagnosis(p=0.001). While the termination rates was 47.9; live birth occurred in 51.3%. The gestational week was significantly lower in patients who were terminated than in those whose delivery was decided (median 20+3 vs 23+2) (p=0.015). Termination rates were found to be significantly lower than those with anomaly accompanying FHC(p=0.018). Conclusion Accuracy rates of fetal USG in the diagnosis of prenatal FHC are quite high. Prenatal diagnosis and timing are important factors affecting termination and live birth rates.

Key words: fetal hydrocephalus, prenatal diagnosis, pregnancy, neural tube defect, amniocentesis