The anomaly of the left coronary artery in a child – Alka-child

Description of the left coronary artery abnormalities

The anomaly of the left coronary artery (ALKA) It is a rare heart defect.

Usually, the left coronary artery carries oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Next, the blood flows into the aorta and spreads throughout the body.

When Alka, the left coronary artery is not connected to the aorta. Instead of this, it is connected to the pulmonary artery. It means, in that blood is not enough oxygen in the lungs. In this defect, the heart muscles receive blood with low oxygen content. There has also leakage of blood back into the pulmonary artery due to low pressure in it.

FTAA is usually found in infants. In some cases, disease may not be detected, until the child reaches the age of 2-6 months. Very rarely it is diagnosed in older children.

Causes of anomalies of the left coronary artery

ALKA – birth defect. It means, that a child is born with the disease. It is not known , Why the left coronary artery some babies develop properly.

Risk factors for the left coronary artery abnormalities

Risk factors are unknown

Symptoms of the left coronary artery abnormalities

Symptoms may include:

• Low cardiac function;
• Rapid breathing;
• Poor appetite;
• Slow growth;
• Sweating;
• Irritability;
• Swelling around the eyes and / or feet.

The doctor may also detect a heart murmur during a physical exam.

This disease can lead to heart failure. If the child has any of these symptoms, as soon as possible to seek medical help.

Diagnosis of the left coronary artery abnormalities

To diagnose the disease the doctor performs a physical examination and conduct the following tests:

• Echocardiogram – test, which uses sound waves, to see the size, shape and motion of the heart;
• Chest X-ray;
• Electrocardiogram – test, which measures the electrical activity of the heart;
• MRT (Magnetic resonance imaging);
• CT scan – to make pictures of structures inside the chest;
• Cardiac catheterization-test, wherein the catheter is used (tube) and x-ray machine to assess the heart and its blood supply.

Treatment of anomalies of the left coronary artery

The doctor chooses the best method of treatment, which may include:

Surgery

Usually, need surgery, To correct this deficiency. During the operation,, the left coronary artery:

• Detached from the pulmonary artery;
• It attaches to the aorta.

Monitoring

The child should be regularly examined by a cardiologist. If your child has symptoms persist after surgery, your doctor may recommend:

• Medications;
• Lifestyle changes.

Prevention of the left coronary artery abnormalities

Currently known methods of prevention FTAA.