Disorder - Tetralogy of Fallot

Organ Systems Involved
Cardiovascular

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Aorticopulmonary septal defect; Atrial septal defect; Mitral stenosis; Patent ductus arteriosus; Subaortic stenosis; Subvalvular pulmonic stenosis; Supravalvular aortic stenosis; Ventricular septal defect

Alternative Names
Blue disease

Presenting Signs

Tetralogy of Fallot is a malformation of the heart. It is characterised by four congenital defects of the heart and the large vessels exiting the heart. The combination of these defects results in movement of blood from right to left across the heart, meaning that a reduced amount of blood reaches the lungs for oxygenation. Symptoms are related to a lack of oxygen being delivered to the tissues – cyanosis (bluish colouration of gums/nose/conjunctiva and cold ear tips and toes), syncope (fainting), failure to grow, exercise intolerance and laboured breathing. Symptoms occur within the first few weeks of life. Severely affected kittens may die at birth or shortly after.

Breeds Affected
Siamese


Treatment

Surgical: surgical correction aims to increase blood flow to the lungs by redirecting major blood vessels within and surrounding the heart. The small size of the feline heart is a major obstacle for successful surgery.

PubMed References
Tetralogy of Fallot

Contributor
Amanda Miller