Ultrasonic features of intra-amniotic "unidentified debris' at 14-16 weeks' gestation

The objective of the study was to define the sonographic features of various echogenic materials which have been observed in the amniotic cavity of pregnancies in the early second trimester. The study population consisted of women who underwent a transvaginal ultrasound scan of pregnancy at 14-16 weeks' gestation. Our experience in 6500 examinations performed in both low- and high-risk pregnancies is reported; 249 cases of intra-amniotic debris were identified in this population. Five different types of echogenic material were observed in the amniotic fluid: small floating particles, round structures, cystic structures, solid and semi-solid masses and highly echogenic material which looked like calcification. We conclude that intra-amniotic echogenic material may be observed during early pregnancy. Its origin and clinical significance need further evaluation.