Cardiology — MCQs

Cardiology Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 71: The overall heart size in tetralogy of Fallot is usually:

A. Markedly enlarged
B. Normal or relatively small (Correct Answer)
C. Slightly enlarged
D. Moderately enlarged

Explanation: **Explanation:** In **Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)**, the overall heart size is typically **normal or relatively small**. This is a high-yield distinction from other cyanotic congenital heart diseases. **Why the correct answer is right:** The hallmark of TOF is the combination of a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO/Pulmonary Stenosis). Because the pulmonary stenosis limits the amount of blood entering the lungs, there is no pulmonary over-circulation. Furthermore, the VSD is "non-restrictive," allowing the right ventricle (RV) to decompress into the aorta. While the RV undergoes **concentric hypertrophy** to handle the pressure, it does not typically undergo significant dilatation. This results in the classic **"Coeur-en-sabot" (boot-shaped heart)** on X-ray, where the apex is tilted upward by the hypertrophied RV, but the total cardiothoracic ratio remains within normal limits. **Why the incorrect options are wrong:** * **Options A, C, and D:** These are incorrect because TOF is a "cyanotic heart disease with **decreased** pulmonary blood flow." Marked or moderate cardiomegaly is usually seen in conditions with **increased** pulmonary blood flow (e.g., large VSD, PDA, or TGA) or valvular regurgitation, where the heart chambers must dilate to accommodate volume overload. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **X-ray Findings:** Boot-shaped heart, narrow vascular pedicle (due to pulmonary hypoplasia), and **oligemic lung fields** (decreased pulmonary markings). * **Right-sided Aortic Arch:** Seen in approximately 25% of TOF cases. * **The "Shunt" Rule:** If a cyanotic child has a **large** heart on X-ray, think of Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) or Ebstein’s Anomaly, not TOF. * **Murmur:** The murmur in TOF is due to **pulmonary stenosis**, not the VSD. A softer murmur during a "Tet spell" indicates worsening obstruction.

Question 72: A child has Transposition of the Great Arteries. What maternal condition should be investigated?

A. Maternal pregnancy-induced hypertension
B. Hypertension
C. Diabetes mellitus (Correct Answer)
D. Thyroid disease

Explanation: **Explanation:** **1. Why Diabetes Mellitus is Correct:** Maternal pregestational diabetes mellitus is a well-established and potent risk factor for congenital heart disease (CHD) in the offspring. Hyperglycemia during the period of organogenesis (the first 8 weeks of gestation) acts as a teratogen, disrupting the normal development of the heart. While diabetes is associated with various defects (most commonly Ventricular Septal Defects and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), **Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)** is specifically and strongly associated with maternal diabetes. The metabolic derangements lead to abnormal looping and septation of the conotruncal region. **2. Why Other Options are Incorrect:** * **Maternal Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) & Hypertension:** Chronic or gestational hypertension is more commonly associated with placental insufficiency, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and prematurity, rather than specific structural cardiac malformations like TGA. * **Thyroid Disease:** Maternal thyroid dysfunction (hypo- or hyperthyroidism) is primarily linked to fetal growth issues, goiter, or neurodevelopmental delays, but it is not a recognized risk factor for TGA. **3. Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Most Common CHD in Infants of Diabetic Mothers (IDM):** Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). * **Most Characteristic/Specific CHD in IDM:** Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA). * **Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM):** IDMs often present with transient subaortic septal hypertrophy, which usually resolves spontaneously after birth. * **TGA Presentation:** Presents as "Early, Deep Cyanosis" in a newborn. On X-ray, it shows the classic **"Egg-on-a-string"** appearance. * **Management:** Prostaglandin E1 (to keep the ductus open) followed by the **Arterial Switch Operation (Jatene procedure)**, which is the treatment of choice.

Question 73: Which of the following represents the additional component in pentalogy of Fallot?

A. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) (Correct Answer)
B. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
C. Right ventricular Hypertrophy (RVH)
D. Pulmonic Stenosis

Explanation: **Explanation:** The core of this question lies in understanding the anatomical progression from Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) to its variants. **1. Why the Correct Answer is Right:** **Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)** is classically defined by four anatomical features: 1. Large Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) 2. Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction (Pulmonic Stenosis) 3. Overriding of the Aorta 4. Right Ventricular Hypertrophy (RVH) When a patient presents with these four features **plus an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)**, it is termed **Pentalogy of Fallot**. The ASD is typically of the *ostium secundum* type. This additional shunt can further complicate the hemodynamics, though the clinical presentation remains similar to severe TOF. **2. Why the Incorrect Options are Wrong:** * **Options B, C, and D (VSD, RVH, and Pulmonic Stenosis):** These are the standard components already present in the "Tetralogy." They do not represent the "additional" fifth component that upgrades the diagnosis to a "Pentalogy." **3. Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Boot-shaped heart (Coeur en sabot):** A classic radiological finding in TOF/Pentalogy due to the upturned apex (from RVH) and concave pulmonary segment. * **Shunt Physiology:** TOF is the most common **cyanotic** congenital heart disease (CHD) presenting after infancy. * **Tet Spells:** Hypercyanotic episodes caused by an acute increase in right-to-left shunting. Management includes the **knee-chest position** (to increase systemic vascular resistance) and oxygen. * **Gold Standard Investigation:** Echocardiography is the primary diagnostic tool, but Cardiac MRI is increasingly used for post-operative follow-up.

Question 74: Which of the following statements is false regarding Atrial Septal Defect?

A. Ostium secundum is the most common type.
B. It typically involves a right-to-left shunt. (Correct Answer)
C. It may be associated with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC).
D. Congestive Cardiac Failure (CCF) is very rare.

Explanation: **Explanation:** **1. Why Option B is the correct (False) statement:** Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is an **acyanotic** congenital heart disease. Under normal physiological conditions, the pressure in the left atrium is higher than in the right atrium. Therefore, blood flows from the left atrium to the right atrium, resulting in a **left-to-right shunt**. A right-to-left shunt only occurs if pulmonary hypertension develops (Eisenmenger syndrome), which is a late complication. **2. Analysis of other options:** * **Option A:** **Ostium secundum** is indeed the most common type of ASD (75% of cases), located in the region of the fossa ovalis. * **Option C:** ASD is frequently associated with other anomalies. Specifically, **Sinus Venosus ASD** is classically associated with partial or total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC/PAPVC). * **Option D:** CCF is **very rare** in children with ASD because the right ventricle is highly compliant and can handle the volume overload for decades. Symptoms usually manifest in the 3rd or 4th decade of life. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Auscultation:** Characterized by a **Wide, Fixed Split S2** (due to delayed closure of the pulmonary valve) and a mid-systolic flow murmur at the pulmonary area. * **ECG Findings:** Right axis deviation and **RSR' pattern** (incomplete RBBB) in lead V1 are high-yield diagnostic clues. * **Lutembacher Syndrome:** The combination of ASD and acquired Mitral Stenosis. * **Paradoxical Embolism:** A unique complication where a systemic venous embolus crosses the ASD to cause a stroke.

Question 75: A 8-month-old infant presents with severe dyspnea on exertion, clubbing of digits, and bluish sclera. What is the most likely diagnosis based on these findings?

A. Tetralogy of Fallot (Correct Answer)
B. Transposition of Great Arteries (TGA)
C. Ebstein's anomaly
D. Coarctation of the aorta

Explanation: **Explanation:** The clinical triad of **cyanosis** (implied by bluish sclera/clubbing), **clubbing**, and **dyspnea on exertion** in an 8-month-old infant is classic for **Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)**. 1. **Why TOF is correct:** TOF is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD) beyond infancy. The "bluish sclera" is a clinical sign of chronic systemic desaturation (cyanosis), and clubbing signifies chronic hypoxia. Dyspnea on exertion in infants often manifests during feeding or crying (cyanotic spells/Tet spells). The pathophysiology involves a right-to-left shunt due to a large VSD and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO). 2. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **TGA:** Typically presents with severe cyanosis in the **neonatal period** (first days of life). Without a large mixing lesion, it is incompatible with life beyond the immediate newborn stage. * **Ebstein’s Anomaly:** While it causes cyanosis, it is characterized by massive cardiomegaly ("wall-to-wall heart") and arrhythmias. It is less likely to present with this specific exertional profile at 8 months compared to TOF. * **Coarctation of the Aorta:** This is an acyanotic condition. It presents with upper limb hypertension, radio-femoral delay, and heart failure, not chronic cyanosis or clubbing. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **X-ray finding:** Boot-shaped heart (Coeur en sabot) due to RVH and upturned apex. * **Murmur:** A harsh systolic ejection murmur at the left mid-to-upper sternal border (due to pulmonary stenosis, NOT the VSD). * **Management of Tet Spell:** Knee-chest position (increases systemic vascular resistance), Oxygen, Morphine, and Beta-blockers (Propranolol). * **Most common associated anomaly:** Right-sided aortic arch (seen in 25% of cases).

Question 76: Which one of the following is the most common cause of cyanotic heart disease?

A. Dextrocardia
B. Fallot's tetralogy (Correct Answer)
C. Atrial septal defect
D. Coarctation of aorta

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)** is the most common cause of **cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD)** beyond the neonatal period. It consists of four classic features: pulmonary stenosis (the primary determinant of severity), right ventricular hypertrophy, overriding of the aorta, and a large ventricular septal defect (VSD). The cyanosis results from a right-to-left shunt across the VSD due to increased resistance at the pulmonary outflow tract. **Analysis of Options:** * **Dextrocardia (Option A):** This refers to the heart being positioned in the right side of the chest. While it can be associated with complex anomalies, it is a positional diagnosis, not a primary cause of cyanosis. * **Atrial Septal Defect (Option C):** This is an **acyanotic** heart disease characterized by a left-to-right shunt. Cyanosis only occurs if Eisenmenger syndrome develops (reversal of shunt), which is a late complication. * **Coarctation of Aorta (Option D):** This is an acyanotic obstructive lesion. It typically presents with upper limb hypertension and diminished lower limb pulses, rather than central cyanosis. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Most common CCHD overall:** Tetralogy of Fallot. * **Most common CCHD in the newborn period (first week):** Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA). * **X-ray finding in TOF:** "Boot-shaped heart" (Coeur en sabot) due to an upturned apex from RVH and a concave pulmonary segment. * **Management of "Tet Spells":** Knee-chest position (increases systemic vascular resistance), oxygen, and morphine.

Question 77: Which type of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is most common?

A. Patent foramen ovale
B. Ostium primum
C. Ostium secundum (Correct Answer)
D. Sinus venosus

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Ostium secundum** is the most common type of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), accounting for approximately **75% of all cases**. It results from the excessive resorption of the septum primum or the inadequate growth of the septum secundum. It is typically located in the region of the fossa ovalis (mid-septal). **Analysis of Options:** * **Ostium secundum (Correct):** The most frequent variety. It is usually a sporadic finding but can be associated with Holt-Oram syndrome (heart-hand syndrome). * **Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO):** While common in the general population (up to 25%), a PFO is technically a "flap-valve" opening rather than a true deficiency of septal tissue. Therefore, it is not classified as a true ASD. * **Ostium primum:** The second most common type (15-20%). It occurs low in the septum and is a form of Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD). It is classically associated with **Down Syndrome** and often presents with a cleft mitral valve. * **Sinus venosus:** A rare type (5-10%) located near the entry of the Superior Vena Cava (most common) or Inferior Vena Cava. It is frequently associated with **Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (PAPVC)**. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Physical Exam:** Characterized by a **wide, fixed split S2** and a mid-systolic flow murmur at the upper left sternal border. * **ECG Findings:** Ostium secundum typically shows **Right Axis Deviation (RAD)** and RBBB, whereas Ostium primum shows **Left Axis Deviation (LAD)**. * **Complication:** Paradoxical embolism (stroke) is a known risk. Eisenmenger syndrome occurs much later in ASD compared to VSD or PDA.

Question 78: Which of the following statements regarding Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is true?

A. Ostium primum is the most common type of ASD.
B. Children with ASD always exhibit growth retardation.
C. Large ASDs are typically surgically corrected between 1 to 3 years of age. (Correct Answer)
D. ASD is commonly affected by infective endocarditis.

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Correct Option (C):** Large Atrial Septal Defects (ASDs) are typically scheduled for elective surgical or device closure between **1 to 3 years of age**. While most children with ASD are asymptomatic, early closure is recommended to prevent long-term complications such as pulmonary hypertension, right-sided heart failure, and atrial arrhythmias in adulthood. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Option A:** **Ostium secundum** is the most common type of ASD (accounting for ~75% of cases). Ostium primum is less common and is frequently associated with Down syndrome and endocardial cushion defects. * **Option B:** Unlike Ventricular Septal Defects (VSD), children with ASD usually have **normal growth and development**. Growth retardation is rare because the left-to-right shunt occurs under low pressure, and congestive heart failure is uncommon in early childhood. * **Option C:** ASD is unique among congenital heart defects because it is **NOT** a high-risk condition for **Infective Endocarditis (IE)**. This is because the pressure gradient between the atria is low, resulting in non-turbulent flow that does not damage the endocardium. (Note: Ostium primum ASD is an exception if it involves a cleft mitral valve). **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Auscultation:** Characterized by a **Wide, Fixed Split S2** and a mid-systolic flow murmur at the pulmonary area. * **ECG Findings:** Right axis deviation and **RSR' pattern** (incomplete RBBB) in lead V1 are classic. * **Lutembacher Syndrome:** The combination of an ASD and acquired Mitral Stenosis. * **Spontaneous Closure:** Small secundum ASDs (<6mm) identified in infancy often close spontaneously; larger defects (>8mm) rarely do.

Question 79: Wide fixed split S2 is seen in which of the following conditions?

A. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) (Correct Answer)
B. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
C. Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
D. Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC)

Explanation: ### Explanation **1. Why Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is correct:** The hallmark of an ASD is a **wide, fixed split S2**. * **Wide:** The left-to-right shunt increases the volume of blood in the right ventricle (RV), prolonging RV ejection time and delaying the closure of the pulmonary valve (P2). * **Fixed:** In a normal heart, inspiration increases venous return to the right side, delaying P2. In ASD, the large communication between the atria equalizes the pressure changes during respiration. During expiration, the decrease in systemic venous return is compensated by an increase in the left-to-right shunt across the ASD. Consequently, the RV stroke volume remains constant throughout the respiratory cycle, and the split does not vary. **2. Why the other options are incorrect:** * **VSD:** Typically presents with a **variable (normal) split S2**. While the split may be wide due to increased RV volume, it still varies with respiration because the pressure gradient between the ventricles changes during the respiratory cycle. * **TOF:** Characteristically features a **single S2**. The pulmonary valve is often stenotic or hypoplastic (inaudible P2), and the aorta is "overriding," making the A2 component dominant. * **TAPVC:** While it can cause a wide split S2 due to RV volume overload, it is **not classically "fixed"** unless associated with a large ASD. However, ASD is the classic textbook answer for this physical finding. **3. Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Wide Variable Split:** Seen in Right Bundle Branch Block (RBBB) and Pulmonary Stenosis. * **Reverse (Paradoxical) Split:** Seen in Left Bundle Branch Block (LBBB) and Aortic Stenosis (P2 occurs before A2). * **ASD Murmur:** The murmur in ASD is a **midsystolic flow murmur** at the pulmonary area (due to increased flow across the PV), NOT due to flow across the defect itself. * **Lutembacher Syndrome:** ASD + Mitral Stenosis.

Question 80: Which of the following is NOT a major criterion for rheumatic fever?

A. Chorea
B. Arthritis
C. Carditis
D. Prolonged P-R interval (Correct Answer)

Explanation: The diagnosis of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) is based on the **Revised Jones Criteria (2015)**. These criteria are divided into Major and Minor categories based on their diagnostic specificity. ### **Why "Prolonged P-R interval" is the correct answer:** **Prolonged P-R interval** is classified as a **Minor Criterion**, not a major one. It represents a first-degree atrioventricular block, indicating a delay in conduction. While it is a common finding in ARF, it is non-specific and can occur in various other inflammatory or infectious conditions, which is why it does not carry the diagnostic weight of a major criterion. ### **Why the other options are incorrect:** The following are all **Major Criteria** (remembered by the mnemonic **J♥NES**): * **Chorea (Option A):** Specifically Sydenham’s chorea (St. Vitus dance). It is a delayed manifestation characterized by involuntary, purposeless movements. * **Arthritis (Option B):** Typically presents as **Migratory Polyarthritis** involving large joints. (Note: In high-risk populations, monoarthritis or polyarthralgia can also be considered major). * **Carditis (Option C):** Usually presents as pancarditis (endocarditis, myocarditis, and pericarditis). It is the only manifestation that can lead to chronic valvular heart disease. ### **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Essential Requirement:** Evidence of a preceding Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infection (Positive throat culture, Rapid Antigen test, or elevated ASO/Anti-DNase B titers) is mandatory for diagnosis, except in cases of isolated chorea or insidious carditis. * **Diagnosis Rule:** 2 Major OR 1 Major + 2 Minor criteria are required for the initial episode. * **Minor Criteria:** Arthralgia, Fever, Elevated ESR/CRP, and Prolonged P-R interval. * **Subcutaneous Nodules & Erythema Marginatum:** These are the remaining two Major Criteria; they are rare but highly specific for ARF.

Practice by Chapter

Congenital Heart Diseases: Cyanotic

Practice Questions

Congenital Heart Diseases: Acyanotic

Practice Questions

Rheumatic Heart Disease

Practice Questions

Kawasaki Disease

Practice Questions

Infective Endocarditis

Practice Questions

Myocarditis and Cardiomyopathies

Practice Questions

Arrhythmias in Children

Practice Questions

Heart Failure in Children

Practice Questions

Pulmonary Hypertension

Practice Questions

Systemic Hypertension

Practice Questions

Dyslipidemia in Children

Practice Questions

Cardiac Evaluation and Diagnostics

Practice Questions

Want unlimited practice?

Get full access to all questions, explanations, and performance tracking.

Start For Free

Cardiology — MCQs

Cardiology — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?