Fetal intracardiac echogenic foci: visualization depends on the orientation of the 4‐chamber view.

Abstract

To compare the frequency of visualization of echogenic intracardiac foci in different cardiac views. Women having ultrasonographic examinations between October 1997 and July 1998 were prospectively evaluated if a fetal echogenic intracardiac focus was seen in either ventricle. Echogenic intracardiac foci were seen in 89 fetuses in whom both the apical and lateral 4-chamber heart views were obtained. Eight-six fetuses (97%) had a single focus (83 in the left ventricle and 3 in the right ventricle), and 3 (3%) had 2 foci. Echogenic intracardiac foci were seen in the apical 4-chamber view in 89 (100%) and in the lateral 4-chamber view in only 26 (29%; P = .001). Echogenic intracardiac foci are not easily seen in the lateral 4-chamber view. Studies that suggest an increased risk of aneuploidy when echogenic foci are seen should specify the orientation of the 4-chamber view used.