In the majority of patients with patent ductus arteriosus, with its associated continuous murmur and other classic findings, the diagnosis is usually not difficult, and the surgical treatment in these cases has become quite standardized. In doubtful cases catheterization and aortography are most helpful. There are, however, a few cardiovascular lesions which may be confused with a patent ductus arteriosus. In a series of 100-odd cases, operated upon at the Cook County Children's Hospital and the Presbyterian Hospital, certain vascular lesions were found which simulated a patent ductus. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate these conditions and to present the related problems.
REPORT OF CASES
Case 1.
—A 4-month-old infant was admitted on Dec. 30, 1953, to the Cook County Children's Hospital because of difficulty in breathing. She had experienced a recent upper respiratory infection. There was no history of cyanosis.Physical examination revealed a well-developed infant who