Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

What condition may indicate ventricular septal defect based on echocardiographic findings?

1. Increased left atrial size

2. Septal motion abnormalities

3. Low left ventricular output

4. Heavy tricuspid regurgitation

The correct answer is: Septal motion abnormalities

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is characterized by a defect in the septum dividing the left and right ventricles, which allows for abnormal shunting of blood between these chambers. One of the key echocardiographic findings indicative of a VSD is the presence of septal motion abnormalities. This occurs because the abnormal pressure gradient between the left and right ventricles can lead to abnormal movement of the interventricular septum. Instead of moving symmetrically, the septum may shift towards the left ventricle during systole due to higher pressure in that chamber, which is a classic manifestation seen in VSD. While increased left atrial size, low left ventricular output, and heavy tricuspid regurgitation can be important findings in other cardiovascular conditions, they are not directly indicative of a VSD on their own. Increased left atrial size may suggest volume overload but is more commonly associated with left-sided heart issues or diastolic dysfunction. Low left ventricular output can occur in various conditions and does not specifically point to a VSD. Heavy tricuspid regurgitation is also a separate issue that could be due to right heart overload or other factors not directly related to the presence of a VSD. Thus,