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Am J Perinatol 1994; 11(3): 179-183
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1040740
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1994 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Fetal Myocardial Calcification Associated With Maternal Cocaine Use

Thelma E. Yap, Daniel Diana, Victor Herson, Leon Chameides, Jonelle C. Rowe
  • Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology (In-Training) (T.E.Y.), University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Pediatric Cardiology (D.D.), Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut and University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Newborn Services (VH.), Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut; Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut, and University of Connecticut Health Center (L.C.), Farmington, Connecticut; and Department of Pediatrics Division of Neonatology, University of Connecticut Health Center (J.C.R.), Farmington, Connecticut
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Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Two cases of fetal myocardial calcification confirmed postnatally are reported. In contrast to other reports, both infants survived with resolution of calcification by 6 and 12 months. Diagnostic investigations failed to confirm the presence of congenital infection. Both pregnancies were complicated by early cocaine use leading to the speculation that myocardial necrosis with subsequent calcification related to the toxic and/or vascular effects of cocaine was responsible. The finding of fetal myocardial calcification on prenatal ultrasound should prompt a search for causes, which may include cocaine exposure.