Dextrocardia Definition

Dextrocardia is the term used when a baby's heart grows in the right side of the chest and not the left. This usually happens in early pregnancy, while the heart develops in the fetus.

Types

• The rarest type of dextrocardia is mirror image, in which not only the heart but also the lungs and organs in the abdomen are opposite of their normal positions. More common types of dextrocardia feature other medical conditions in addition to an abnormal heart location, such as heart defects and an abnormally functioning chest and abdominal organs.

Symptoms

• Depending on the type of dextrocardia, there may be no symptoms. More severe cases, in which the heart and organs are malfunctioning, may include such signs as bluish skin, failure to grow, and repeated sinus or lung infections.

Diagnosis

• Certain tests may be required to diagnose dextrocardia, including CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds of the heart, and X-rays.

Treatment

• Dextrocardia that causes no bodily defects or abnormally functioning organs may require no treatment. If defects are present, surgery is most likely required, as well as heart medications to help strengthen the muscle.

Complications

• The development of complications can depend upon the severity of the dextrocardia and any other conditions that may be associated with it. Common complications can include septic shock, blocked intestines, and infection.