Why Is Tetralogy of Fallot a Problem?
• With TOF, oxygen-poor blood from the right ventricle may flow through the VSD and mix with oxygen-rich blood in the left ventricle. This is called a right-to-left shunt. The mixed blood (blood with some oxygen) is then pumped through the aorta to the body. Because this blood contains less oxygen than normal, it causes your child’s skin, lips, and nails to appear blue. This condition is called cyanosis. Cyanosis worsens if there is decreased blood flow to the lungs caused by severe PS. • A child with TOF may have sudden episodes (tetralogy or “tet” spells) in which there is severely decreased blood flow to the lungs. During a tet spell, your child may become irritable, cry, or turn blue. He or she may even faint or have a seizure.
