An undeliverable fetus with an ominous fetal heart pattern: an obstetric dilemma.

An unusual fetal heart rate (FHR) pattern was detected in a patient with sickle cell crisis in early labor. Despite the potentially ominous significance of this pattern, immediate delivery by cesarean section had to be deferred because of maternal contraindications. Institution of treatment directed at possible etiologic factors failed to correct the heart rate abnormalities. An attempt at symptomatic treatment by administration of propranolol to the mother was successful and was associated with good fetal outcome.