Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) or Fallot’s syndrome is a congenital heart defect manifested with four different malformations. Occurring in 1 per 2000 newborns, TOF equally affects both genders. This article focuses on the pathophysiology of TOF, as well as symptoms, diagnosis, and management of the defect. TOF results in periodic bluish coloration of the skin (Tet Spell), especially when the affected children (symptoms also occur in the adults) have bowel movements or cry.
Tet spell also causes shortness of breath and the patient may become unconscious. The other symptoms of TOF include finger clubbing and a heart murmur. Pathophysiology There are 4 cardinal pathophysiological signs of TOF: Ventricular septal defect The ventricular septal defect is the appearance of a hole between the ventricles of the heart. The hole is often single and large and predominantly centered around the superior…
