Ballantyne syndrome, also known as mirror syndrome or triple edema, is caused by fetal hydrops, which is the accumulation of fluid in the fetus. This fluid can build up in various locations, including beneath the skin, in the body cavities, and around the organs.
The underlying causes of fetal hydrops can be diverse, including:
- Rhesus isoimmunization: This occurs when a mother with Rh-negative blood produces antibodies against the Rh-positive blood of her fetus.
- Parvovirus B19 infection: This virus can cause a severe infection in the fetus, leading to hydrops.
- Chromosomal abnormalities: Certain genetic conditions can cause fetal hydrops.
- Cardiac malformations: Heart defects can lead to fluid accumulation in the fetus.
- Placental problems: Issues with the placenta, such as chorioangiomas (tumors of the placenta), can contribute to hydrops.
- Maternal preeclampsia: This condition, characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy, can also lead to Ballantyne syndrome.
The exact cause of Ballantyne syndrome is often multifactorial, meaning that several factors contribute to the condition.
