Polyhydramnios and Oligohydramnios

In 1815, Denman recognized the great variation in amniotic fluid volume and associated polyhydramnios with congenital malformations, fetal death, and fetal disease. Although our current knowledge of the intrauterine environment has expanded many fold, we have not overturned any of Denman's concepts. Polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios are pathologic conditions representing excess amniotic fluid and diminished amniotic fluid, respectively. Numerous serious clinical conditions are associated with polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios. An understanding of the normal amniotic fluid parameters and the amniotic fluid turnover is necessary before embarking on the pathologic considerations.