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Calcified yolk sac

Last revised by Dr Daniel J Bell ◉ on 29 Nov 2021

Citation, DOI & article data

Citation:

Morgan, M., Bell, D. Calcified yolk sac. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org. (accessed on 18 Aug 2022) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-32679

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-32679

Permalink:

https://radiopaedia.org/articles/32679

rID:

32679

Article created:

09 Dec 2014 by Dr Matt A. Morgan ◉

Revisions:

11 times by 7 users - see full revision history

System:

Obstetrics

Sections:

Tags:

obstetrics, fetus, first trimester, cases

Synonyms:

Calcified yolk sacs

A calcified yolk sac has been described as a sign of intrauterine demise. The cause of yolk sac calcification in failed pregnancies is uncertain but is likely related to dystrophic calcification.

Radiographic features

Ultrasound

abnormal increased echogenicity of the yolk sac with posterior acoustic shadowing and possibly comet tail artifact

Practical points

indeterminate abnormal yolk sac abnormality that should not be considered alone for the diagnosis of failed early pregnancy
follow-up ultrasonography at 7-14 days to assess the pregnancy for viability is generally appropriate