Tetralogy of Fallot is a rare condition caused by a combination of four heart defects that are present at birth (congenital).These defects, which affect the structure of the heart, cause oxygen-poor blood to flow out of the heart and to the rest of the body.
Symptoms
- A bluish coloration of the skin caused by blood low in oxygen (cyanosis)
- Shortness of breath and rapid breathing, especially during feeding or exercise
- Loss of consciousness (fainting)
- Clubbing of fingers and toes — an abnormal, rounded shape of the nail bed
- Poor weight gain
- Tiring easily during play or exercise
- Irritability
- Prolonged crying
- A heart murmur
- Tet spells
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Echocardiography
- Electrocardiogram
- Chest X-ray
- Oxygen level measurement (pulse oximetry).
- Cardiac catheterization
Treatment
- Intracardiac repair
- Open-heart surgery
- Temporary surgery
