Abstract
The primary imaging modality for the diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is echocardiography. However, CT may be the technique on which an incidental PDA is first recognized because of the increasing number of chest CT scans performed for a variety of causes. Identification of PDA on CT may lead to earlier closure using a PDA occluder device. Immediate identification of incidental PDA is important, but a high rate of missed diagnosis of PDA has been reported due to its small size and anatomic location. In addition, echocardiography may overlook the presence of even a large PDA due to decrease in the amount of shunting through the PDA caused by high pulmonary artery pressures. This review provides the basic CT anatomy and clinical perspective of PDA, and discusses the role of CT in the evaluation of PDA as well as methods to avoid overlooking a small PDA on CT.
Highlights
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) comprises approximately 10% of congenital heart disease
The primary imaging modality for diagnosing PDA is echocardiography supplemented by various imaging modalities such as chest X-ray, cardiac catheterization, MRI, and CT [1,2,4,5]
This review provides a basic review of the CT anatomy of PDA, and discusses the potential role of CT in the diagnosis of PDA as well as methods to avoid overlooking a small PDA on CT
Summary
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) comprises approximately 10% of congenital heart disease. Most cases of PDAs are sporadic, prematurity, viral infections such as rubella, and congenital heart disease are associated with PDA. The overall prevalence of PDA is about 1/500–1/2000 births [1,2,3]. The primary imaging modality for diagnosing PDA is echocardiography supplemented by various imaging modalities such as chest X-ray, cardiac catheterization, MRI, and CT [1,2,4,5]. CT may be the initial technique on which a PDA is identified because of the increasing number of chest CT scans that are being performed [6]. It is imperative for interpreters to have an understanding of the diagnostic pitfalls of PDA on CT. This review provides a basic review of the CT anatomy of PDA, and discusses the potential role of CT in the diagnosis of PDA as well as methods to avoid overlooking a small PDA on CT
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