Final answer:
Erythroblastosis fetalis can lead to anemia, hydrops fetalis, and hepatosplenomegaly in the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erythroblastosis fetalis, also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), is a condition that occurs when a Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus. Maternal anti-Rh antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetal Rh+ red blood cells, causing them to be destroyed. This can lead to several fetal findings on ultrasound:
- Anemia: Due to the destruction of red blood cells, the fetus may show signs of anemia, such as a decreased number of red blood cells or reduced hemoglobin levels.
- Hydrops fetalis: In severe cases, the destruction of red blood cells can lead to accumulation of fluid in the fetus's tissues, resulting in hydrops fetalis. This can be visualized as fluid collections in various parts of the fetus's body on ultrasound.
- Hepatosplenomegaly: The destruction of red blood cells can also lead to enlargement of the liver and spleen, which can be observed on ultrasound as increased size and echogenicity of these organs.