Genetic testing for nonimmune fetal and neonatal hydrops

Whole Exome Sequencing and Whole Genome Sequencing for Nonimmune Fetal/Neonatal Hydrops

Observational Thomas Jefferson University · NCT03911531

This study is testing if advanced genetic testing can help families understand the causes of nonimmune fetal hydrops in their babies and improve care options.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment55 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorThomas Jefferson University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT03911531 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on nonimmune fetal hydrops, a serious condition characterized by fluid accumulation in fetuses or neonates. It aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy by utilizing whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) on samples collected from affected families. The study will involve a cohort of mother-father-fetus trios, where genetic counseling and routine amniocentesis will be performed as part of the standard care. The results from WES and WGS will be communicated to the families and their healthcare providers to guide further management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include pregnant individuals with a diagnosis of nonimmune fetal hydrops who are planning to undergo amniocentesis.

Not a fit: Patients whose hydrops is caused by congenital infections or other documented etiologies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the identification of genetic causes of nonimmune fetal and neonatal hydrops, leading to better management and outcomes for affected families.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using WES and WGS is becoming more common, the specific application to nonimmune fetal hydrops is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
The following inclusion criteria will apply:

1. Fetal hydrops identified anytime in pregnancy after the first trimester
2. Parents are planning to proceed with amniocentesis as a routine workup for hydrops.
3. Both parents are available for blood sample collection
4. Normal CMA and normal karyotype if performed
5. Negative workup for Parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, and syphilis
6. Negative fetomaternal hemorrhage workup as a cause for hydrops For cases of neonatal hydrops, the criteria for invasive prenatal testing will not be required as a postnatal blood sample from the hydropic infant will be the source of proband DNA.

The following exclusion criteria will apply:

1. Microarray was abnormal or karyotype was abnormal
2. Hydrops caused by congenital infection
3. Fetomaternal hemorrhage was a documented etiology for hydrops
4. Parental DNA cannot be obtained for either parents
5. Donor egg or donor sperm were utilized for conception
6. Fetus/Infant diagnosed with lysosomal storage disease
7. Pregnant woman or father of the baby less than 16 years of age
8. Hydrops was diagnosed concomitantly with intrauterine fetal demise

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Nonimmune Fetal HydropsNonimmune Hydrops in NeonateGenetic Disordershydropsprenatal diagnosisamniocentesiswhole genome sequencing
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.