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Is calcification of the fetal liver dangerous?

Dr Ashok Khurana
Director, Genitourinary and Vascular Ultrasound,
The Ultrasound Lab,
New Delhi

Q: I am 22 weeks pregnant and my last ultrasound confirmed a calcification of the baby's liver. My doctor did not know what the concerns are. What causes a calcification in the baby's liver and what should be my concern? According to my doctor, everything else looks alright.

A:Calcification in the fetal liver is usually consequent to an intra-uterine infection such as cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, rubella or syphilis. It is necessary to analyse results from the Torch Test and the VDRL test and put the scan pictures in perspective to assess the implications. The long term effects can vary from no consequence to severe neurological disabilities.