Ebstein's anomaly

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Definition Symptoms Causes When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Coping and support

Definition

Ebstein's anomaly is a rare heart defect that's present at birth (congenital). It primarily involves the lower right chamber of your heart (right ventricle) and the tricuspid valve — the valve between the upper right chamber (atrium) and the right ventricle.

In Ebstein's anomaly, your tricuspid valve doesn't work properly, so blood leaks back through the valve and into the right atrium. As a result, your heart works less efficiently. Ebstein's anomaly may also lead to enlargement of the heart. In addition, about half the people with Ebstein's anomaly have a hole in their heart, and one in four has episodes of fast heartbeats.

If no signs or symptoms are present, careful monitoring of your heart may be all that's necessary. If signs and symptoms become troublesome, or if the heart is enlarging or becoming weaker, treatment for Ebstein's anomaly may be necessary. Treatment options include medications and surgical repair.

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Symptoms