Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection history and symptoms


 * Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, M.B.B.S. [mailto:psingh@perfuse.org], Keri Shafer, M.D. [mailto:kshafer@bidmc.harvard.edu]; Assistant  Editor(s)-In-Chief: Kristin Feeney, B.S. [mailto:kfeeney@perfuse.org]

Overview
In general, children with partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) are asymptomatic. Symptoms usually do not arise until adulthood following prolonged volume overload of the right ventricle.

Symptoms

 * Palpitations are usually due to supraventricular arrhythmias which in turn are likely due to right atrial dilation.
 * Dyspnea may develop in adults as a result of right ventricular volume overload and ensuing cor pulmonale. It has been said that dyspnea may occur earlier in children if over 50% of the pulmonary veins drain anomalously.
 * Hemoptysis may reflect the development of pulmonary hypertension and is rare.
 * Pedal edema can occur as a result of right ventricular failure or cor pulmonale.