Fetal maceration is one of the signs of fetal death. It is a destructive process caused by enzymatic autolysis of cells that begins immediately following fetal death. It results in epidermal desquamation and edema. It is visible on ultrasound between 12 to 24 hours after fetal death. It may not be seen in a pregnancy earlier than 6 months. It can appear as thickening, swelling or separation of skin and can produce a bubble-like appearance.
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