Occasional reviewPresentation of coarctation of the aorta in the neonates and the infant with short and long term implications

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) can present with acute circulatory collapse during the neonatal period or in early infancy. This review article aims to cover the presentation and management of CoA; including the common signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, medical and surgical management. We will not cover the features of the disease presentation in older children or adults. A high index of suspicion of CoA is extremely important in infants presenting with circulatory collapse in the first 6-8 weeks of life. Decreased femoral arterial pulse volume as compared to the right brachial artery, raised upper limb blood pressure as compared to lower limb and differential cyanosis should raise suspicion of coarctation in an infant presenting with circulatory collapse. Prostaglandin (PGE1 or PGE2) infusions should be started as soon as possible to restore forward circulation.