In a normal echocardiogram, what is the appearance of pericardial effusion?

The appearance of pericardial effusion on an echocardiogram is characterized by an anechoic or hypoechoic area surrounding the heart. This indicates the presence of fluid in the pericardial space, which appears dark or less echogenic compared to surrounding structures due to the fluid's low density and lack of echogenicity. In a normal echocardiogram, the heart is typically surrounded by a thin layer of pericardial fluid, which is not visually prominent. However, when there is a pathological accumulation of fluid—referred to as pericardial effusion—it manifests as this anechoic region.

In contrast, a dense echogenic mass surrounding the heart would suggest a solid mass or fibrous tissue rather than fluid. Thickened pericardium with calcifications indicates chronic changes, possibly related to constrictive pericarditis, rather than fluid accumulation. A homogeneous echogenic fluid around the left ventricle suggests a specific interaction or a different pathological process rather than the typical appearance of pericardial effusion. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the typical ultrasound findings of fluid in the pericardial space, which is anechoic or hypoechoic when viewed on an