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PPHN — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateNeonatologyPPHNRACP Paediatrics

A term neonate born after emergency caesarean for fetal distress develops severe cyanosis at 2 hours that does not improve with 100% oxygen. Echocardiogram shows a structurally normal heart with right-to-left shunting across the PDA and PFO. What is the diagnosis?

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Correct answer: E — Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

PPHN: failure of normal postnatal decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance, causing right-to-left shunting. Echocardiography shows a structurally normal heart with evidence of elevated pulmonary pressures. Treatment includes oxygen, inhaled nitric oxide, and in refractory cases, ECMO.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: PPHN