title: [Echogenic intracardiac structures (golf ball phenomenon) as predictors of chromosome anomalies].
abstract: Small echogenic areas in the fetal heart are known as the golf ball phenomenon. These structures are considered by some to be a marker for chromosomal anomalies.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To prospectively study the relationship of echogenic intracardiac structures and chromosomal aberrations.
  
  
  METHODS
  Over a 15 month period (6/96-9/97) 4500 unselected fetuses between 16-31 weeks were screened for malformations; in each case echogenic intracardiac structures were sought.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In 77 cases (1.17%) single or multiple echogenic punctate intracardiac structures could be diagnosed. In 60 fetuses (78%) chromosome analysis was performed. Two (3.3%) had chromosomal abnormalities--trisomy 21 and 45.XO/46.XX.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The golf ball phenomenon appears to be a normal variation in the development of the papillary muscle. This sign is usually easily to identify and if present, should lead to a more detailed screening for anomalies. In the case of other sonographic abnormalities, with advanced maternal age or with a positive triple test, a chromosomal analysis should be performed.
authors.affiliation: Universitätsklinik für Frauenheilkunde, Abteilung für Pränatale Diagnostik und Therapie, Wien.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Bettelheim
authors.forename: M R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Ulm
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Deutinger
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Bernaschek
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D025063:Chromosome Disorders; D004452:Echocardiography; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000235:genetics; D005318:Fetal Heart / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007621:Karyotyping; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers