Eisenmenger syndrome is a ventricular septum defect, which is a complication of a congenital heart defect, including atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, and more complex types of acyanotic heart disease.

Simply put, the heart pumps blood left to right within the chambers, and that causes abnormal blood flow to the lungs leading to severe damage. The arteries become stiff and it becomes more and more difficult to circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body. It leads to cyanosis (the skin takes on a blue tint) and clubbing of the fingers.

Eisenmenger syndrome can also cause blood clots, kidney problems, iron deficiency, fainting, and swelling in the joints.

In the most severe cases, the only successful treatment comes with an enormous risk–a heart-lung transplant. If caught early enough, surgery to correct the original heart defect can prevent the patient from developing Eisenmenger syndrome.

To learn more about Eisenmenger syndrome, visit the National Organization for Rare Diseases (NORD). Share your thoughts with Patient Worthy!