Abstract
There are currently no standard procedures for investigating fetal death, however, there are recommended procedures. In most cases, anamnesis, examination, autopsy and karyotype determination are recommended.
It is prudent to consider first the circumstances that are common and more likely, given the results of clinical examinations (severe hypertension or fetal growth retardation or overt anomaly) and those that cause recurrent intrauterine deaths (unattended diabetes or severe hypertension). If the cause is not obvious from the beginning, a broader examination is appropriate.
In all cases, a fetal transfusion test and antibody testing should be performed. An initial clinical examination is a guide for the need for further tests and they are indicated individually.
If there are clinical signs of placental insufficiency (eg growth retardation or oligohydramnios) or severe preeclampsia, then tests for lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies and common congenital thrombophilia should be performed.