Causes of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

There is no defined cause of patent ductus arteriosus. It is more common for premature babies than full-term babies to have a patent ductus arteriosus. While the exact causes of patent ductus arteriosus are unknown, researchers have found a link between the condition and genetics. Infants with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, genetic disorders or whose mothers may have had rubella during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing patent ductus arteriosus. A ductus arteriosus is necessary for a baby's blood circulation while in the womb.

Symptoms of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

A small patent ductus arteriosus may go unnoticed, due to the lack of signs or symptoms, until adulthood. A large patent ductus arteriosus may present with some of the following symptoms:

• Skin that is blue tinged or dusky

• Rapid heart rate

• Constant lung infections

• Breathlessness

• Fatigue

• Sweating when crying or eating

• Poor appetite

Diagnosis of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

A patient with patent ductus arteriosus may exhibit a heart murmur that may be detected during a physical exam. Upon detection of the heart murmur, additional tests will need to be conducted, including:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Chest X-ray

• Echocardiogram

• Cardiac catheterization

• MRI

• Cardiac CT scan

The results of these tests will determine the diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus.

Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Treatment for patent ductus arteriosus depends on the patient's age and overall health. Infants with a patent ductus arteriosus are closely monitored by their doctors, as the ductus arteriosus may or may not close shortly after birth. For premature infants, medication may be used to help close the patent ductus arteriosus. For patients whose patent ductus arteriosus has not responded to medicine or closed on its own, a medical procedure is required.