FE Clinical Indications & Risk Factors 2

Question 1

A mother has a first-degree relative (sibling) with a congenital heart defect. What is the approximate recurrence risk for her fetus?

Accepted Answer

3-4%

Answer

When a sibling has a congenital heart defect, the recurrence risk for subsequent pregnancies is approximately 3-4%.

Question 2

Which maternal infection during the first trimester carries the highest risk for fetal cardiac anomalies, specifically congenital rubella syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Rubella virus

Answer

Rubella virus infection in the first trimester is classically associated with congenital rubella syndrome including patent ductus arteriosus and pulmonary artery stenosis.

Question 3

A pregnant patient on lithium therapy is referred for fetal echocardiography. Which cardiac anomaly is specifically associated with lithium exposure?

Accepted Answer

Ebstein anomaly of the tricuspid valve

Answer

Lithium exposure during pregnancy is associated with Ebstein anomaly, a malformation of the tricuspid valve with apical displacement.

Question 4

Fetal hydrops without an immune cause is found on obstetric ultrasound. Why does this warrant fetal echocardiography?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac arrhythmias and structural defects are major causes of non-immune hydrops

Answer

Structural heart defects and fetal arrhythmias are among the leading causes of non-immune fetal hydrops, making echocardiography essential.

Question 5

Which of the following maternal autoimmune conditions places the fetus at risk for complete heart block?

Accepted Answer

Systemic lupus erythematosus with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies

Answer

Maternal anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies, most commonly found in SLE and Sjögren syndrome, can cross the placenta and damage the fetal conduction system causing complete heart block.

(FE) Fetal Echocardiography Certification Practice Test

(FE) Fetal Echocardiography Certification Practice Test

FE Clinical Indications & Risk Factors 2