PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) and Acyanosis

Question 1

Features of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Answer 1

a form of congenital heart defect

generally classed as ‘acyanotic’. However, uncorrected can eventually result in late cyanosis in the lower extremities, termed differential cyanosis

connection between the pulmonary trunk and descending aorta

usually, the ductus arteriosus closes with the first breaths due to increased pulmonary flow which enhances prostaglandins clearance

more common in premature babies, born at high altitude or maternal rubella infection in the first trimester

Question 2

What does acyanotic mean?

Answer 2

no cyanosis

Cyanosis is a bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes resulting from low levels of oxygen in the blood.

Therefore, when a condition is described as acyanotic, it means that despite any underlying health issues, the individual does not exhibit the blue-tinted skin or mucous membranes that are characteristic of cyanosis.

Question 3

Conditions that are acyanotic?

Answer 3

Some common acyanotic heart defects include ventricular septal defects (VSD), atrial septal defects (ASD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Question 4

Features of patent ductus artieriosus

Answer 4

left subclavicular thrill

continuous ‘machinery’ murmur

large volume, bounding, collapsing pulse

wide pulse pressure

heaving apex beat

Question 5

management of patent ductus arteriosus

Answer 5

indomethacin or ibuprofen

given to the neonate
inhibits prostaglandin synthesis
closes the connection in the majority of cases

if associated with another congenital heart defect amenable to surgery then prostaglandin E1 is useful to keep the duct open until after surgical repair

Question 6

first line to give to in patent ductus arteriosus

Answer 6

indomethacin or ibuprofen