Differential diagnosis of complications of the ductus arteriosus

• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
• Ductus diverticulum
• Calcification of the ligamentum arteriosum
• Prostaglandin E induced gastritis when keeping a PDA open
• Prostaglandin E induced osteopathy when keeping a PDA open
• Bowel perforation from indomethacin when closing a PDA

Approach to the differential diagnosis of complications of the ductus arteriosus:

• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) causes a left to right shunt which results in cardiomegaly and increased pulmonary blood flow
• Ductus diverticulum is seen in 33% of patients and should not be confused with a traumatic aortic pseudoaneurysm
• Calcification of the ligamentum arteriosum is a normal finding
• Prostaglandin E (PGE) induced gastritis can occur when using PGE to keep a PDA open and is best diagnosed with US
• Prostaglandin E induced periostitis can occur when using PGE to keep a PDA open and is best diagnosed with radiographs
• Bowel perforation from indomethacin when using it to close a PDA should be surveilled for with radiographs