What are the symptoms of transposition of the great arteries?
The obvious indication of TGA is a newborn who becomes cyanotic (blue) in the transitional first day of life when the maternal source of oxygen (from the placenta) is removed. Cyanosis is noted in the first hours of life in about half of the infants with TGA, and within the first days of life in 90 percent of them. The degree of cyanosis is related to the presence of other defects that allow blood to mix, including a patent ductus arteriosus – a fetal connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery present in the newborn, which usually closes in the first few days after birth. The following are the other most common symptoms of TGA. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: • rapid breathing • labored breathing • rapid heart rate • cool, clammy skin The symptoms of TGA may resemble other medical conditions or heart problems. Always consult your child’s physician for a diagnosis. How is transposition of the great arteries diagnosed? A pediatric
