Coarctation-like Physiology with Cerebral Arteriovenous Fistula

Abstract

Hemodynamic signs of coarctation of the aorta were present in a neonate dying in cardiac failure. A cerebral arteriovenous fistula was found at autopsy. No obstructive lesion of the aortic arch was present. Development of the aortic isthmus may be impaired if diminished flow through this segment is present. Reduced flow may be present if most of the systemic output is diverted to a fistula proximal to the isthmus, distal systemic flow being maintained by flow from right-to-left through the ductus arteriosus. Spontaneous duct closure after birth may then be followed by a reduction in distal systemic flow, resulting in signs suggestive of coarctation.