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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between PFO and ASD?

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Patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal defect (ASD) are two types of holes between the upper chambers of the heart, but they have different characteristics and causes:

  1. Cause: ASD is a congenital defect, meaning it is present at birth due to a failure of the septal tissue to completely form between the atria. On the other hand, PFO is a normal phenomenon before birth, but it may fail to close after birth.
  2. Size: Generally, an ASD hole is larger than a PFO. The larger the hole, the more likely symptoms are.
  3. Prevalence: ASD is present in 8 out of every 10,000 live births. In contrast, PFO is present in most newborns but usually closes on its own within a few months of birth.
  4. Clinical presentation: ASD is usually associated with pulmonary hypertension, an increased Qp/Qs ratio, and enlarged right chambers, whereas PFO patients typically have normal or slightly elevated pulmonary pressure, normal Qp/Qs ratio, and normal right chambers.
  5. Treatment: Treatment for ASD and PFO may include closure devices, medications, or surgical closure, depending on the patient's symptoms and the severity of the condition.

In summary, PFO and ASD are both holes between the upper chambers of the heart, but they differ in their causes, sizes, prevalence, clinical presentations, and treatments.

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  • What is the Difference Between PFO and ASD?
  • Comparative Table: PFO vs ASD

    • Comparative Table: PFO vs ASD

    Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) and Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) are two types of heart defects due to holes in the heart. Both defects occur between the left and right upper chambers of the heart, called the septum. Here is a table outlining the differences between PFO and ASD:

    Feature PFO ASD
    Definition A tunnel-like passageway between the septum primum and septum secundum, allowing a right-to-left shunt when right atrial pressure exceeds left atrial pressure. A hole in the septum between the right atria and left atria, allowing blood to flow between the two chambers.
    Physiopathology Persistence of the foramen ovale after birth due to incomplete adhesion of the septum primum and septum secundum. Improper formation of septum tissues between the atria during fetal development.
    Prevalence Present in 25% to 30% of the general population. Present in a smaller percentage of the population compared to PFO.
    Diagnosis Multiple diagnostic modalities, including contrast-enhanced transcranial Doppler and contrast-enhanced transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Various diagnostic methods, but a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the type and size of the defect.
    Treatment Transcatheter PFO closure for patients with a high probability of PFO-related problems or medical therapy. Treatment varies depending on the size and severity of the defect, and may include surgical repair or medical intervention.
    Complications Increased risk of stroke, paradoxical embolism, and decompression sickness. Complications may include right heart failure, atrial arrhythmias, strokes, and pulmonary hypertension.

    Both PFO and ASD are congenital heart defects that result in a hole between the right and left atria. However, the size, severity, and treatment options may vary between the two conditions.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.