CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

How is Tetralogy of Fallot characterized in terms of congenital abnormalities?

1. Five separate issues

2. A combination of four specific defects

3. Only a heart valve defect

4. It is not a recognized condition

The correct answer is: A combination of four specific defects

Tetralogy of Fallot is characterized by a combination of four specific congenital heart defects. This condition typically includes ventricular septal defect (a hole between the heart's lower chambers), pulmonary stenosis (narrowing at or just below the pulmonary valve), right ventricular hypertrophy (thickening of the muscular walls of the right ventricle), and overriding aorta (where the aorta is positioned directly over a ventricular septal defect instead of over the left ventricle). The presence of these four defects distinguishes Tetralogy of Fallot as a specific syndrome and helps in understanding the hemodynamic implications of the condition. This classification is crucial for diagnosis, management, and surgical intervention planning. Recognizing these four components ensures that healthcare providers address the full scope of the abnormalities during treatment. In contrast, the other options are not accurate representations of this condition: it is not defined by five issues, it is not limited to a heart valve defect, and it is indeed a recognized condition in pediatric cardiology.