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In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Tetralogy of Fallot
Pronunciation: teh-TRAL-uh-jee of fah-LOH
A complex congenital heart defect comprising four anatomical abnormalities that restrict blood flow to the lungs.
Full Definition
Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect, consisting of four components: ventricular septal defect, pulmonary stenosis, right ventricular hypertrophy, and overriding aorta. It accounts for approximately 3-5% of all congenital heart disease cases. The condition causes reduced oxygen in the blood, leading to cyanosis (blue discoloration of skin and lips). Surgical repair is typically required in infancy or early childhood.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize both words; commonly abbreviated as TOF in clinical notes.
In Context
- "The patient underwent complete repair of Tetralogy of Fallot at 18 months of age." — Surgical case report
- "Prenatal diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot was confirmed by fetal echocardiography at 22 weeks gestation." — Prenatal assessment report
Also known as
TOF
Fallot's tetralogy
Don't confuse with
Pentalogy of Cantrell
Trilogy of Fallot