Prevalence of Cardiac Anomalies in Fetuses Diagnosed With Intracardiac Echogenic Foci: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Prevalence of Cardiac Anomalies in Fetuses Diagnosed With Intracardiac Echogenic Foci: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

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Objectives: The exact prevalence of cardiac anomalies in diagnosed cases of echogenic foci is still unknown, as various studies have been carried out across multiple populations with different methodologies.Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to determine the precise prevalence of cardiac anomalies found in cases with intracardiac echogenic foci.Methods: The authors manually searched the electronic databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science).

Two reviewers independently did data extraction and quality control; a third reviewer resolved any raised conflicts.The data were analyzed by comprehensive meta-analysis software version 2.Risk of bias rescue tool assessment and strobe checklist were used for quality assessment.

Results: Out of 531 articles identified, 32 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis with a total sample size of 7568.The pooled prevalence of cardiac anomalies in the Baby Food fetuses with intracardiac echogenic foci was 4.8% (95% CI, 3.

6%-6.4%).Subgroup analysis was done according to the geographical distribution of cases, maternal age, gestational age, year of publication, risk of bias, and ultrasonography operator.

Conclusions: The current study represents the first and only meta-analysis concerning the prevalence of cardiac anomaly in fetuses diagnosed with intracardiac echogenic focus (ICEF).This study supports a definitive relationship between ICEF and underlying congenital heart disease.We recommend increased training of individuals performing this ultrasonography to improve early detection, ultimately enhancing the care given to infants immediately post-birth.