Persistent truncus arteriosus is a rare congenital heart defect that occurs during fetal development, characterized by the abnormal development of the main blood vessels that arise from the heart. In a normal heart, the aorta and pulmonary artery are separate and carry oxygenated and deoxygenated blood respectively. However, in the case of persistent truncus arteriosus, there is a single large vessel, called the truncus arteriosus, that arises from the heart and supplies blood to both the body and the lungs.
This condition results from the failure of the truncus arteriosus to properly separate into the aorta and pulmonary artery during fetal development. As a consequence, a single vessel carrying mixed blood is formed, compromising the normal oxygenation of blood throughout the body. Additionally, the walls of the truncus arteriosus are often thickened, leading to further complications.
Symptoms of persistent truncus arteriosus can vary, but typically include cyanosis (blue-tinted skin), difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and slow growth. Without proper treatment, this condition can lead to severe complications, such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and infections in the heart.
Treatment for persistent truncus arteriosus usually involves open-heart surgery to disconnect the truncus arteriosus, create a separate aorta and pulmonary artery, and repair any associated defects. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be necessary as the child grows to accommodate their changing cardiovascular needs. Early diagnosis and prompt medical intervention are crucial to improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with persistent truncus arteriosus.
