Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) has multiple potential causes, including genetic factors, chromosomal abnormalities, and maternal health issues during pregnancy.
Understanding the Causes of CCHD
CCHD is a complex condition, and often the exact cause remains unknown. However, several factors are known to increase the risk of a baby being born with CCHD:
- Genetics: CCHD can be linked to genetic mutations or inherited conditions.
- Abnormal Chromosomes: Problems with the number or structure of chromosomes can lead to CCHD. The references specifically note "[a]bnormal chromosomes" as a contributing factor.
- Maternal Illness During Pregnancy: Certain maternal health conditions during pregnancy can increase the risk of CCHD in the baby:
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes in the mother can affect fetal development.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU): This blood disorder in the mother needs to be carefully managed during pregnancy. The references specifically note "phenylketonuria (a blood disorder)."
- Drug Use: Maternal drug use during pregnancy is a known risk factor. The references specifically note "drug use."
- Viral Infection: Certain viral infections in the mother can impact fetal heart development. The references specifically note "viral infection."
Factors Contributing to CCHD
Here's a breakdown in table form:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Genetics | Inherited genetic mutations. |
| Chromosomal Issues | Abnormal number or structure of chromosomes. |
| Maternal Diabetes | Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy. |
| Maternal Phenylketonuria | Unmanaged PKU during pregnancy. |
| Maternal Drug Use | Use of illicit or certain prescription drugs during pregnancy. |
| Maternal Viral Infections | Certain viral infections contracted during pregnancy. |
