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Congenital Heart Disease in Children

Structural cardiac anomalies that develop in utero may present with cyanosis, heart failure or murmur from the newborn period onward.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Congenital Heart Disease in Children?

CHD covers structural defects involving the chambers, valves, septum or great vessels of the heart formed during embryonic development.

It is classified as cyanotic (Tetralogy of Fallot, TGA) and acyanotic (VSD, ASD, PDA) types; risk increases in the presence of genetic syndromes.

Pulse oximetry screening in the newborn (CCHD screening) and fetal echocardiography enable early diagnosis.

Symptoms

Bluish discoloration of skin (cyanosis) in newborn
Difficulty feeding, sweating, fatigue
Slow weight gain and growth retardation
Heart murmur on auscultation
Frequent respiratory tract infection
Tachypnoea and intercostal retraction
Squatting position and finger clubbing

Risk Factors

Family history (sibling/parent CHD)
Maternal diabetes mellitus
Genetic syndromes (Down, DiGeorge, Turner)
Maternal rubella infection during pregnancy
Antiepileptic and lithium use
Maternal alcohol and smoking
Advanced maternal age (>40 years)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Newborn cyanosis, feeding refusal, rapid breathing requires emergency presentation
  • If detected during fetal echocardiography, perinatal cardiology centre is essential
  • If positive on pulse oximetry screening, paediatric cardiology consultation is required
  • Postoperative regular cardiology and physical examination follow-up is critical

Treatment Methods

01
Pulse oximetry and fetal echocardiography for early diagnosis
02
Prostaglandin E1 infusion in the duct-dependent newborn
03
Catheter intervention (balloon valvuloplasty, stent)
04
Open heart surgery (correction or palliation)
05
Heart failure medication (diuretic, ACEI)
06
Long-term cardiology follow-up and infective endocarditis prophylaxis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.