Congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD), also known as congenital heart anomaly and congenital heart defect, is a problem in the structure of the heart that is present at birth. Signs and symptoms depend on the specific type of problem. Symptoms can vary from none to life-threatening.

Types

There are many types of congenital heart defects. They can range from simple conditions that don't cause symptoms to complex defects that cause severe, life-threatening problems. The types include Inlet ventricular septal defect, Transposition of the great vessels, Persistent truncus arteriosus, and Tetralogy of Fallot.

Causes

The cause of congenital heart disease may be either genetic or environmental, but is usually a combination of both. It can be caused by chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, genetic disorders, or a history of heart disease in the family.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be made during pregnancy or after the child is born. Some defects do not need treatment. Others may be effectively treated with catheter procedures or surgery.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the specific condition. Some mild heart defects do not require any treatment. Others can be treated with medications, invasive procedures, or surgery. Most adults with complex heart defects lead successful, active lives.

Epidemiology

Congenital heart disease affects about 1% of newborns. It is the most common type of birth defect and a leading cause of birth defect-related deaths.

See also

• Cardiology
• Pediatric cardiology
• Cardiac surgery
• Heart