Fetal intracardiac echogenic foci - Visualization depends on the orientation of the 4-chamber view

Objective. To compare the frequency of visualization of echogenic intracard iac foci in different cardiac views. Methods. Women I-raving ultrasonograph ic examinations between October 1997 and July 1998 were prospectively evalu ated if a fetal echogenic intracardiac focus was seen in either ventricle. Results. Echogenic intracardiac foci were seen in 89 fetuses in whom both t he apical and lateral 4-chamber heart views were obtained. Eight-six fetuse s (97%) had a single focus (83 in the left ventricle and 3 in the right ven tricle), and 3 (3%) had 2 foci. Echogenic intracardiac foci were seen in th e apical 4-chamber view in 89 (100%) and in the lateral 4-chamber view in o nly 26 (29%; P = .001). Conclusions. Echogenic intracardiac foci are not ea sily seen in the lateral 4-chamber view. Studies that suggest an increased risk of aneuploidy when echogenic foci are seen should specify the orientat ion of the 4-chamber view used.