MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -The occurrence of right heart failure in patients with unclosed atrial septal defects appears to be independent from the presence of pulmonary hypertension, due to right-sided cavities chronic volume overload. Nevertheless, pulmonary hypertension appears to be an aggravating factor.

Detailed explanation-2: -Larger atrial septal defects can cause serious complications, including: Right-sided heart failure. Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) Stroke.

Detailed explanation-3: -As a baby’s heart develops during pregnancy, there are normally several openings in the wall dividing the upper chambers of the heart (atria). These usually close during pregnancy or shortly after birth. If one of these openings does not close, a hole is left, and it is called an atrial septal defect.

Detailed explanation-4: -Atrial septal defects may occur in association with a variety of other disorders including Down syndrome, Ellis van-Creveld syndrome, Opitz syndrome, Costello syndrome, Chondroectodermal dysplasia, fetal effects of Rubella, Holt-Oram syndrome, Hurler syndrome, and others.

Detailed explanation-5: -It normally drains into the floor of the right atrium above the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve. A defect or hole in the common wall between the left atrium and the coronary sinus (called “unroofing” of the coronary sinus) creates a communication between the right and left atria.