Tetrology of Fallot

Alternate Names : ToF, Fallot's Syndrome

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Infants with this condition usually have a heart murmur that can be heard at birth, or shortly thereafter. They have a bluish-purple color to the skin, a condition called cyanosis. The child is cyanotic because the blood circulating through the body does not have enough oxygen. Between the ages of 2 months and 2 years, children with tetrology of Fallot may experience "blue" spells. These spells may be brought on by crying, straining to have a bowel movement, or fever.

A child who has tetrology of Fallot tends to develop slowly, eat poorly, and grow slowly. He or she may get short of breath, especially when exercising. A change in the shape of the fingertips, called clubbing, is another sign of this condition.