How many weeks does it generally take for cardiac echogenic foci to disappear?
May 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
There is generally no specific number of weeks for the disappearance of echogenic intracardiac foci. If it is a normal phenomenon, they usually disappear between 28 and 34 weeks of gestation. However, in some pregnant women with weaker constitutions or slower fetal development, the resolution may take longer. If the echogenic foci are due to abnormal cardiac development, the fetus may have congenital heart disease, in which case the echogenic intracardiac foci may not disappear.
Generally, there is no specific number of weeks for when cardiac echogenic foci disappear; the timing depends on individual circumstances. It may resolve between 28 to 34 weeks of gestation, but could take longer, or in some cases, may not disappear at all. The details are as follows:
Cardiac echogenic foci typically refer to bright spots observed in the fetal ventricles during prenatal ultrasound examinations. These may represent a normal variant or could indicate abnormal heart development. If it is a normal physiological finding, the echogenic foci usually disappear between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. However, in some pregnant women with weaker constitutions or slower fetal development, resolution may take longer. If the echogenic foci are due to abnormal cardiac development, the fetus might have congenital heart disease, in which case the bright spots may persist. Therefore, the timeline varies significantly from case to case and cannot be generalized.
When cardiac echogenic foci are detected, there's no need for excessive concern. It is important to cooperate with your doctor to complete relevant examinations, attend follow-up appointments regularly, and monitor the progression. If the echogenic foci do not resolve later in pregnancy, timely treatment based on the underlying cause should be initiated.
