Which are the symptoms of Cor Triatriatum?

Cor triatriatum is a rare congenital heart defect characterized by the presence of a membrane or septum dividing the left atrium into two chambers. This condition occurs during fetal development when the pulmonary veins fail to merge properly with the left atrium. As a result, the left atrium becomes divided into a proximal and distal chamber, leading to various symptoms and complications.

Symptoms:
The symptoms of cor triatriatum can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the degree of obstruction caused by the membrane. In some cases, the condition may be asymptomatic and only discovered incidentally during routine medical examinations. However, when symptoms do occur, they typically manifest in infancy or early childhood. Common symptoms include:

1. Respiratory distress: Infants with cor triatriatum may experience difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or shortness of breath. This is often due to the obstruction of blood flow from the lungs to the left atrium, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary veins.

2. Heart murmur: A heart murmur is a common finding in individuals with cor triatriatum. It is caused by the turbulent blood flow across the membrane or septum within the left atrium. The murmur may be heard during a physical examination and can vary in intensity depending on the degree of obstruction.

3. Poor growth: Infants with cor triatriatum may have difficulty gaining weight and growing at a normal rate. This is often attributed to the increased workload on the heart and inadequate oxygenation of the body's tissues.

4. Recurrent respiratory infections: Due to the abnormal blood flow and potential pooling of blood within the divided left atrium, individuals with cor triatriatum are more susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

5. Cyanosis: In severe cases of cor triatriatum, where there is significant obstruction to blood flow, cyanosis may occur. Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, and nails due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood.

6. Exercise intolerance: Children with cor triatriatum may experience fatigue and difficulty participating in physical activities. The limited blood flow to the left ventricle can impair the heart's ability to pump oxygenated blood to the body during exertion.

It is important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals with cor triatriatum. Some may experience mild symptoms, while others may have more severe complications requiring medical intervention. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes for individuals with this condition.