Structural and Congenital Conditions
Pediatric cardiologists diagnose and manage both congenital (present at birth) and acquired heart conditions in babies, children, adolescents, and transitioning young adults. Structural conditions include atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, pulmonary stenosis or atresia, aortic stenosis, coarctation of the aorta, Ebstein anomaly, and single-ventricle anatomies such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome. They also evaluate and follow patients after surgical or catheter-based repair of these defects.
Rhythm, Muscle, and Other Conditions
Beyond structural defects, pediatric cardiologists manage supraventricular tachycardia, Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome, long QT syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), heart block, and other primary arrhythmias. They also care for children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, Kawasaki disease, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Pediatric cardiologists screen athletes for conditions that increase the risk of sudden cardiac death and advise on activity restrictions and sports participation.
Reviewed by Dr. Pradeepkumar Charla, MD, MBA, FAAP, FACC
Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist — Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC
Last reviewed:
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified cardiologist for decisions about your congenital heart disease care.