User:Mr. Ibrahem/Atrial septal defect

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect in which there is a hole in the wall between the atria, the upper two chambers of the heart. Generally there are no symptoms, though poor ability to exercise and shortness of breath may occur later in life. Complications can include stroke, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure.

The cause is generally unknown. Risk factors include certain genetic syndromes such as Down, infection with rubella during pregnancy, and exposure to alcohol or cocaine during pregnancy. While a hole between the upper chambers is normal during early development, it generally closes during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Diagnosis is usually by ultrasound of the heart. An ASD may occur alone or with other heart defects.

Small atrial septal defects (less than 5 mm) usually spontaneously close in childhood. Large defects that do not close spontaneously may require surgery. About 16 per 10,000 live births are affected. Early descriptions are attributed to Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519).