Fetal ascites refers to a buildup of fluid in the peritoneal cavity of a fetus. Sonograms of fetal ascites show edema of the abdominal wall and free fluid surrounding internal organs like the liver and bowel. Severe cases of nonimmune hydrops fetalis, as seen in hypophosphatasia dwarfism, display ascites as well as massive scalp edema and poorly mineralized bones. Ascites may also be associated with large pleural effusions in the chest. Pseudoascites can sometimes be distinguished from true ascites as the hypoechoic fluid will not clearly outline structures like the umbilical vein.