International Expert Consensus on the Diagnosis and Clinical Management of Primary Fetal Pleural Effusion

The authors aimed to establish standardized clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and management of primary fetal pleural effusion, a rare condition that can significantly affect fetal and neonatal outcomes. Using the Delphi method, they achieved consensus among international experts on key recommendations, including the use of ultrasound for diagnosis, the importance of thorough evaluations to exclude secondary causes, and the preference for thoracoamniotic shunting in hydropic cases. These guidelines are designed to improve clinical practice and perinatal outcomes while providing a basis for future research.