Right-to-Left Shunt

The cardiologist and, in the pediatric age, the pediatric cardiologist are the ones who evaluate a right-to-left circulatory shunt, a heart condition in which blood with little oxygen passes into the general circulation without being adequately oxygenated in the lungs.

What it is: It occurs when there is an abnormal communication between the chambers or vessels of the heart that allows this passage of blood, generally in the context of congenital heart disease.

Signs that may appear: Bluish coloring of the lips and skin, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, especially with exertion.

Whom to see? In addition to cardiology, the cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon and the pediatrician may take part in the management. When these signs appear, a timely professional evaluation is essential.