Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Overview

Patent ductus arteriosus is a condition where the ductus arteriosus which is supposed to be closed in the first 48 hours of life in term infants is persistently remained open after birth.

Signs and Symptoms

Poor eating which leads to poor growth, Frontal sweating with crying or eating, Persistently heavy breathing, Easy tiring, Rapid heart rate

Common Causes

Congenital heart defects, Genetic factors, Environmental factors

Risk Factors

Premature birth, Family history and other genetic conditions, Rubella infection during pregnancy, Being born at a high altitude, Female

Investigation Techniques

Echocardiogram, Chest X-ray, Electrocardiogram , Cardiac catheterization

Treatment and Prevention

IV Indomethacin, Adequate nutrition, PDA repair or closure surgically