Congenital Heart Disease: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

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Congenital Heart Disease: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

A 2-month-old infant is brought to the clinic for a routine check-up. On examination, the pediatrician notes a continuous "machinery-like" murmur best heard at the left upper sternal border. The infant is otherwise healthy and meeting developmental milestones. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
B. Atrial septal defect (ASD)
C. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
D. Tetralogy of Fallot
E. Coarctation of the aorta

Answer and topic summary

The answer is C. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)

Patent ductus arteriosus is characterized by a persistent connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery, which normally closes shortly after birth. The classic clinical finding is a continuous “machinery-like” murmur heard best at the left upper sternal border. This presentation is typical for PDA.

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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:

Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Cardiology ⇒ Congenital Heart Disease ⇒ Patent ductus arteriosus

Also covered as part of the Pediatric Rotation topic lists