VSD: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which of the following is the most common congenital cardiac defect in children?
A. Atrial septal defect
B. Patent foramen ovale
C. Ventricular septal defect
D. Bicuspid aortic valve
E. Coarctation of the aorta
Answer and topic summary
The answer is C. Ventricular septal defect
Ventricular septal defects are the most common congenital cardiac defect (about 2-5 out of 1000 babies) in children. Many VSDs close on their own (about 85-90% during the first year of life); however, if they do not close, the abnormal communication between the right and left ventricles can lead to pulmonary hypertension and ventricular dysfunction. The clinical presentation depends on the size of the defect. Typically, those with severe VSD will have a harsh, low-pitched holosystolic murmur along the left lower sternal border. A transthoracic echocardiogram is the most valuable diagnostic tool. Treatment is typically indicated for symptomatic VSD or VSDs with concurrent pulmonary hypertension.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Cardiology ⇒ ⇒
Also covered as part of the Pediatric EOR topic list