Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

The presence of a comet tail artifact is often related to which of the following?

1. Fluid-filled structures

2. Calcifications in the heart

3. Excessive gas presence

4. Localized tissue edema

The correct answer is: Calcifications in the heart

The presence of a comet tail artifact is primarily related to calcifications within the heart structures, particularly when these calcifications are present at interfaces where there is an abrupt change in acoustic impedance, such as between calcified areas and surrounding soft tissue. Comet tail artifacts appear as a series of closely spaced, parallel echogenic lines trailing behind a reflecting surface. This phenomenon occurs due to the resonant frequency of the structures involved, creating a shadowing effect that aligns with the calcified areas. In specific contexts, such as examining valves or other cardiac tissues, the identification of this artifact can assist clinicians in recognizing underlying calcific changes that may impact the function of the heart or indicate a specific pathology. Understanding the association between calcifications and comet tail artifacts is crucial for accurate interpretation during an echocardiographic examination.