Differential Diagnosis for Congenital Cardiac Abnormality
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): A PFO is a congenital heart defect that allows blood to flow between the left and right atria, increasing the risk of paradoxical embolism, which can lead to recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and transient ischemic attacks (TIA) in young individuals.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): Similar to PFO, ASD is a congenital heart defect that can lead to paradoxical embolism, resulting in DVT and TIA.
- Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): Although less common, a large VSD can also increase the risk of paradoxical embolism, particularly if there is associated pulmonary hypertension.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ebstein's Anomaly: A rare congenital heart defect that can lead to atrialization of the right ventricle, increasing the risk of thromboembolism and paradoxical embolism.
- Tetralogy of Fallot: A cyanotic congenital heart defect that can increase the risk of thromboembolism due to polycythemia and abnormal blood flow.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cor Triatriatum: A rare congenital heart defect where the left atrium is divided into two chambers, increasing the risk of thromboembolism.
- Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection: A rare congenital heart defect where the pulmonary veins connect to the right atrium instead of the left, increasing the risk of paradoxical embolism.