Tetralogy of Fallot is a rare congenital birth defect that is characterized by four distinct heart defects: Ventricular septal defect, pulmonary stenosis, the aorta is directly above the ventricular septal defect, and the right ventricle develops hypertrophy. The combination of these four defects can affect the hearts structure which results in the circulation of oxygen-poor blood throughout the body. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, tests and diagnosis, and treatments for tetralogy of fallot.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with tetralogy of fallot after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Tetralogy of Fallot Signs & Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of tetralogy of fallot vary greatly, depending on the extent of obstruction of blood as it leaves the heart. Signs and symptoms include the following:
- A bluish discoloration of the skin
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting
- Clubbed fingers and toes
- Poor weight gain
- Heart murmur
Tetralogy of Fallot Causes
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of tetralogy of fallot in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the heart defects risk caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of tetralogy of fallot in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Tetralogy of Fallot Risk Factors
It is a general consensus that the specific cause of tetralogy of fallot is unknown. However, the following risk factors may increase the risk of an infant contracting this condition:
- The use of antidepressant drugs by the mother during pregnancy
- Excess consumption of alcohol during pregnancy
- Poor nutrition
- A parent with a congenital birth defect
- Babies born with Down syndrome or DiGeorge syndrome
Tetralogy of Fallot Complications
All babies affected by this congenital birth defect require corrective surgery. If neglected, symptoms may increasingly pose a greater risk of developing more severe, life-threatening complications. Failure to treat this disease immediately may result in disability by the early years of adulthood or even death.
Tetralogy of Fallot Tests & Diagnosis
The following is a list of tests that can help diagnose tetralogy of Fallot:
- Echocardiogram
- Chest X-ray
- Electrocardiogram
- Cardiac catheterization
- magnetic resonance imaging
- Pulse oximetry
Please visit Mayoclinic.com for more information on these tests.
Treatments for Tetralogy of Fallot
The only effective treatment in regards to curing tetralogy of fallot is surgery. There are two types of surgery used in the treatment of this birth defect and they include:
- Intracardiac repair: An open heart surgery typically preformed in a child’s first year that allows the oxygen level in the blood to increase and ease symptoms of tetralogy of fallot.
- Temporary surgery: Occasionally temporary surgery is required before intracardiac repair. During the temporary surgery, doctors create a bypass between the aorta and pulmonary artery to increase blood flow to the lungs to prepare the body for intracardiac repair.
Do I have a Tetralogy of Fallot Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in tetralogy of fallot lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with tetralogy of fallot after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.