The patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart defect characterized by the persistence of a fetal blood vessel, the ductus arteriosus, after birth.
Causes
-
In PDA, the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta during fetal development, fails to close after birth.
-
As a result of the immaturity of the cardiovascular system, premature babies are at a greater risk of developing PDA.
-
Some genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, place a person at an increased risk for PDA.
-
Factors such as maternal infections or exposure to toxins during pregnancy may increase the risk of PDA.
Symptoms
-
The first sign of PDA in infants is typically a characteristic heart murmur heard with a stethoscope.
-
Shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or difficulty breathing are some respiratory symptoms infants with PDA may experience.
-
It is possible for infants with significant PDA to experience difficulty feeding or poor weight gain.
-
Children with PDA may face fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance as a result of the increased workload on their hearts.
Diagnosis
-
A health care provider may evaluate a patient further for PDA if they detect a heart murmur during a routine physical examination.
-
A diagnostic test called an echocardiogram is the primary means of confirming the presence of PDA and assessing its severity.
-
An X-ray of the chest can be performed to detect signs of heart enlargement or pulmonary congestion and to evaluate the size and shape of the heart.
Treatment
-
To promote closure of the ductus arteriosus in premature infants, medications such as indomethacin or ibuprofen may be prescribed.
-
Surgical closure may be required for infants or children with significant PDA or who do not respond to medical treatment. It involves ligating the ductus arteriosus through a small chest incision.
-
A minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter occlusion can be used to close a PDA in certain cases. This involves inserting a closure device through a catheter guided to the heart.
Prevention
-
PDA risk factors can be identified and managed with appropriate prenatal care, which includes regular prenatal checkups and screenings.
-
It is recommended that pregnant women avoid exposure to known risk factors, like maternal infections and toxins, to reduce their risk of developing PDA.
-
A genetic counselor may be recommended for families with a history of congenital heart defects or genetic conditions associated with PDA to help them understand their risk and make informed decisions.
