Ebstein anomaly

Ebstein anomaly is a rare heart defect that is present at birth (congenital). It primarily affects the tricuspid valve, one of the heart's four valves, which prevents blood from flowing back into the right upper heart chamber (atrium) from the right lower heart chamber (ventricle).

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of Ebstein anomaly can vary from none to severe and may include:

Shortness of breath (dyspnea) especially during exercise
Fatigue, especially during physical exertion
Heart palpitations or abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
A bluish color to the lips and skin caused by low oxygen (cyanosis)

Causes[edit | edit source]

Ebstein anomaly is a congenital heart defect, meaning it's present at birth. The cause is generally unknown. It's thought to result from improper development of the heart during the early weeks of pregnancy. While certain factors, such as genetics, might increase the risk of congenital heart defects, a clear cause is often not found.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Ebstein anomaly may be detected by ultrasound during pregnancy. After birth, the doctor may suspect a heart defect if a heart murmur is heard. Further tests might include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Ebstein anomaly depends on the severity of the defect and the symptoms. Treatments might include:

Medications to manage symptoms
Heart surgery to repair the valve
Heart transplant in severe cases

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The outlook for people with Ebstein anomaly varies. Some people can lead normal lives with few symptoms. Others may have significant disability. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve the outlook.

See also[edit | edit source]

Ebstein anomaly Resources
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