Mohammad Javad Gouran, Soodeh Hooshmandi, Sajjad Rahimi Pordanjani,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: An echogenic intracardiac focus (EIF) is one of the most common non-structural findings on fetal ultrasound, typically detected between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. EIF is often considered a soft marker in prenatal screening. However, its association with maternal risk factors—particularly endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism—remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in pregnant women carrying fetuses with EIF and to investigate its correlation with other clinical variables.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted from September 2022 to September 2023 at Amir-al-Momenin Hospital in Semnan, Iran, 100 pregnant women with fetuses diagnosed with EIF confirmed by fetal echocardiography were evaluated. Maternal demographic data, medical history, and fetal sex were collected and statistically analyzed.
Results: The mean maternal age was 41.55 ± 4.0 years, and the mean gestational age was 21.4 ± 3.65 weeks. Hypothyroidism was observed in 7% of the mothers and showed a statistically significant association with the presence of fetal EIF (P = 0.00). Furthermore, hypothyroidism was also significantly associated with underlying maternal diseases and fetal sex. However, no significant association was found between hypothyroidism and maternal age or gestational age.
Conclusions: The findings indicate a noteworthy prevalence of hypothyroidism among pregnant women carrying fetuses with EIF. These results highlight the importance of evaluating maternal thyroid function during pregnancy, particularly in cases where EIF is detected. Further research is recommended to clarify the underlying mechanisms and potential outcomes of this association.
