Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

What is the term for a persistent connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta?

1. Coarctation of the aorta

2. Patent foramen ovale

3. Patent ductus arteriosus

4. Patent fossa ovalis

The correct answer is: Coarctation of the aorta

The condition described by a persistent connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta is known as patent ductus arteriosus. This occurs when the ductus arteriosus, which is a normal fetal connection that allows blood to bypass the lungs, fails to close after birth, resulting in an abnormal connection. This can lead to complications such as increased workload on the heart and pulmonary hypertension. Coarctation of the aorta refers to a narrowing of the aorta that typically occurs just distal to the left subclavian artery, and does not involve a direct connection to the pulmonary artery. Patent foramen ovale is a condition where there is a persistence of the foramen ovale, an opening between the right and left atria, which also does not involve the aorta or pulmonary artery directly. Patent fossa ovalis is similar and indicates the closure of the foramen ovale, but in relation to patency, it is not the term for the connection described in the question. Understanding these distinctions helps in accurately identifying cardiovascular conditions and their implications.