Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Placental lakes
Sonolucent spaces within the placenta representing areas of slow maternal blood flow.
Full Definition
Placental lakes, also called lacunae, are hypoechoic or anechoic spaces visible on ultrasound within the placental tissue, representing areas where maternal blood flows slowly through the intervillous space. These are normal findings that become more prominent as pregnancy advances, particularly in the third trimester. However, extensive lacunar spaces may be associated with placental dysfunction or, when seen early in pregnancy with an anterior placenta, may raise suspicion for placenta accreta spectrum disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between normal age-related lakes and pathological lacunar patterns.
In Context
- "Multiple small placental lakes are noted, consistent with normal gestational age changes." — Third trimester ultrasound report
- "Extensive lacunar spaces in the anterior placenta raise concern for accreta spectrum." — High-risk obstetric consultation
Also known as
placental lacunae
intervillous lakes
Don't confuse with
placental abruption
choriocarcinoma