Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare heart defect. In a normal heart, the blood flows in from the body to the right atrium. It then goes into the right ventricle. Next, the blood travels to the lungs through the pulmonary valve. Here, it picks up fresh oxygen. The blood returns to the left atrium and goes into the left ventricle. The blood moves out to the rest of the body.
This defect occurs when the tricuspid valve develops lower than normal in the right ventricle. Also, the valve does not open and close normally. This allows blood to “leak” in the wrong direction. Ebstein’s anomaly can be mild to severe.
This is a congenital defect. This means that the heart forms incorrectly when the baby is developing in the womb. The baby is born with the condition. It is not known why the heart develops this way in some babies.
Specific risk factors for Ebstein’s anomaly are not clear. Two possible risk factors include:
Genetic abnormalitiesEnvironmental exposureSymptoms vary depending on how severe the defect is. In some cases, there may not be any symptoms. In other cases, symptoms may include:
Swelling in the abdomen and legsBlue or pale skin colorPalpitations or feeling of skipped beatsDecreased energyFailure-to-thrive
or gain weight
Shortness of breath
During the exam, the doctor may detect a
heart murmur
.
These symptoms may be due to other conditions. If your child has any of these, talk to the doctor right away.
The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:
Echocardiogram
—an imaging test that uses sound waves to look at the size, shape, and motion of the heart
Cardiac catheterization
—a test that uses a catheter (tube) and x-ray machine to assess the heart and its blood supply
Chest x-ray
—an imaging test that uses low amounts of radiation to create an image of the chest
MRI scan
—a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the chest
CT scan
—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the chest
Electrocardiogram
—a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart
Other monitors (Halter or Event monitor) and tests (eg,
stress test
) to measure the heart’s rhythm and function
Talk with the doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. Often, surgery is needed right away. Treatment options include:
The doctor may prescribe medicines to:
Help restore normal heart rhythmsReduce fluid in the bodyDepending on your child’s condition, the doctor may recommend:
Surgery—Surgery may be needed to repair or replace the tricuspid valve. This will reduce leaking.Ablation procedure—This procedure may be done if your child is having abnormal heart rhythms. A catheter is threaded up to the heart. Abnormal tissue is destroyed to stop the abnormal rhythms.Your child will have regular exams from a heart specialist. In some cases, your child may need antibiotics before some dental or medical procedures. This is to prevent infections.
There is no way to prevent this condition. Getting appropriate prenatal care is always important.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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