Abnormal Atrial Septum Morphology C0344722
A structural abnormality in the wall between the heart's upper chambers. Some forms are present from birth and may cause heart rhythm problems or blood flow issues, sometimes requiring repair.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- I78.0
- ICD-11
- BA00.0
- Body system
- cardiovascular
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Stroke
A sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain, which can occur if a blood clot passes through the abnormal atrial septum (paradoxical embolism).
Stroke is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately if you experience sudden numbness, confusion, difficulty speaking, or loss of coordination.
Transient ischemic attack
A temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain causing stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours.
A TIA is a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation to prevent a future stroke. Seek urgent medical care.
Shortness of breath
(cardiovascular)Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or exercise, due to increased blood flow through the abnormal atrial septum.
Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Heart murmur
(cardiovascular)An abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat, caused by turbulent blood flow across the abnormal atrial septum.
Frequency: 75-90% of patients
Fatigue
(constitutional)Persistent tiredness and reduced energy levels, often due to reduced efficiency of heart function and oxygen delivery.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Heart palpitations
(cardiovascular)Awareness of rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeats, often triggered by arrhythmias associated with atrial septal abnormalities.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Irregular heartbeat
(cardiovascular)Arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or flutter that may occur due to structural changes in the heart's atria.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Dizziness
(neurologic)Feeling lightheaded or unsteady, which may occur due to altered blood flow or associated arrhythmias.
Frequency: 25-35% of patients
Cyanosis
(dermatologic)Bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, or fingernails due to insufficient oxygen in the bloodstream.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Leg swelling
(cardiovascular)Swelling in the lower legs and feet due to fluid retention from compromised heart function.
Frequency: 10-15% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Disease management and monitoring
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Echocardiographic surveillance
Regular echocardiographic evaluation to monitor atrial septum defect size and cardiac hemodynamics. Helps determine need for intervention.
Additional treatment options
Percutaneous closure device
Catheter-based placement of closure device for suitable secundum atrial septal defects. Less invasive alternative to open surgery with shorter recovery.
procedureSurgical atrial septal repair
Open surgical closure of atrial septal defects, either primary repair or with patch closure. Indicated for larger defects or unfavorable anatomy for percutaneous approach.
surgicalAnticoagulation for atrial arrhythmias
Management of associated atrial fibrillation or flutter with anticoagulation therapy to prevent thromboembolic complications. Selection based on CHA2DS2-VASc score.
medicationGraduated exercise conditioning
Structured cardiac rehabilitation program to improve exercise tolerance and cardiovascular fitness after definitive treatment. Progressive intensity protocols.
physical_therapyWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Atrial Septum Morphology C0344722?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Stout KK, Daniels CJ, Aboulhosn JA, et al. 2018 AHA/ACC Guideline for the Management of Adults With Congenital Heart Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2019;73(12):e81-e192.
Baumgartner H, De Backer J, Babu-Narayan SV, et al. 2020 ESC Guidelines for the management of adult congenital heart disease. European Heart Journal. 2021;42(6):563-645.
G成年人先天性心脏病管理中的房间隔缺损和卵圆孔未闭. Pediatric Cardiology. 2020;41(5):763-775.
Khalil M, Bonnefous O, Bazarjani A, et al. Patent Foramen Ovale Closure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions. 2022;15(8):811-822.
Pristipino C, Germonpré P, Toni D, et al. European position paper on the management of patients with patent foramen ovale. Part II - Clinical and interventional management. European Heart Journal. 2022;43(18):1758-1774.
Søndergaard L, Kasner SE, Rhodes JF, et al. Patent Foramen Ovale Closure or Antiplatelet Therapy for Cryptogenic Stroke. New England Journal of Medicine. 2017;377(11):1013-1022.
Rigatelli G, Dell'avvocata F, Cardaioli P, et al. Atrial septal aneurysm and cryptogenic stroke: A comprehensive review. International Journal of Cardiology. 2018;254:40-44.
Allen HD, Shaddy RE, Penny DJ, et al. Moss and Adams' Heart Disease in Infants, Children, and Adolescents. 9th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2016.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Atrial Septum Morphology C0344722. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy