Q20-Q28: Congenital malformations of the circulatory system

Congenital malformations of the circulatory system are birth defects that affect the structure of a child's heart or blood vessels. They are present at birth and can alter the normal flow of blood in the body. These defects may involve the interior walls of the heart, the valves inside the heart, or the arteries and veins that carry blood to the heart or the body. Symptoms can range from mild, such as a subtle heart murmur, to severe, including breathing difficulties, bluish skin, lips and fingernails, fatigue, and poor blood circulation. These conditions develop while the baby is in the womb and can be due to genetic factors or environmental factors like maternal exposure to certain drugs or illnesses. The progression of these conditions varies from person to person, depending on the specific defect and the severity of the symptoms. They are typically detected through medical imaging or during a physical examination after birth.