cyanotic
Describing congenital heart defects that result in reduced oxygen levels in the blood, causing blue discoloration of skin and lips.
Full Definition
Cyanotic refers to a category of congenital heart defects characterized by decreased oxygen saturation in arterial blood, typically below 85%. These defects involve abnormal mixing of oxygen-poor and oxygen-rich blood or reduced pulmonary blood flow. The resulting hypoxemia causes cyanosis, a bluish discoloration most visible in the lips, fingernails, and skin. Common cyanotic lesions include Tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of great arteries, and tricuspid atresia. These conditions often require early surgical intervention and carry higher morbidity and mortality compared to acyanotic defects.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with 'acyanotic' when categorizing congenital heart defects.
In Context
- "The newborn presented with central cyanosis and was diagnosed with a cyanotic congenital heart defect." — Emergency department note
- "Cyanotic heart disease accounts for approximately 25% of all congenital cardiac anomalies." — Medical textbook