Cyanosis

Question 1

What are the causes of cyanosis in a newborn?

Answer 1

1. Peripheral cyanosis common in first 24 hours of life.
2. Cyanotic congenital heart disease
3. Acrocyanosis

Question 2

What is the role of the nitrogen washout test in a newborn and how does it work?

Answer 2

1. Differentiate between cardiac and non-cardiac causes of cyanosis.
2. Take ABG, give 100% O2 for 10 mins, take another ABG, if PaO2 <15kPA = cyanotic congenital heart disease.

Question 3

What is acrocyanosis and when is it seen?

Answer 3

1. Cyanosis around mouth and extremities in healthy newborns.
2. Benign, seen immediately after birth.