Newborn cardiology: A review.

Approximately eight of every 1,000 newborns have a congenital heart abnormality, ranging from mild to severe. This paper provides a review of these conditions, beginning with an overview of cardiac embryology, fetal and transitional circulation, newborn cardiac evaluation and principles of newborn cardiac testing. Disorders covered include cyanotic heart defects, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, acyanotic defects, congestive heart failure and cardiogenic shock, associated congenital heart defects of the dysmorphic newborn, and neonatal arrhythmias. Understanding and appreciation of newborn cardiac physiology is vital for the clinician that is caring for the newborn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]