Acquired coarctation of the aorta

T J Starc1, S J Abramson, F Z Bierman

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032.

Pediatric Cardiology
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Acquired coarctation of the aorta can cause hypertension in children following medical procedures. Early detection of this aortic narrowing is crucial for timely treatment and improved outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Vascular Biology

Background:

  • Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital narrowing of the aorta.
  • Hypertension in children can have various underlying causes, including vascular abnormalities.

Observation:

  • This report details two pediatric cases of acquired coarctation of the aorta.
  • One case was linked to umbilical artery catheterization, leading to aortic thrombosis and dilation.
  • The second case followed surgical aortotomy for neuroblastoma removal.

Findings:

  • Acquired coarctation of the aorta is an infrequent but remediable cause of secondary hypertension in children.
  • Interventional procedures on the aorta can lead to this complication.

Implications:

  • Periodic examination for coarctation is recommended for children with a history of aortic interventions.
  • Identifying acquired coarctation is vital as it represents a treatable cause of pediatric hypertension.

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