Which complication is commonly associated with untreated patent ductus arteriosus?

The complication most commonly associated with untreated patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is heart failure. When the ductus arteriosus remains open, it allows blood to flow abnormally from the aorta to the pulmonary artery, leading to increased blood circulation in the lungs. This increased workload on the heart can result in volume overload, causing the heart to enlarge and potentially leading to heart failure over time if the ductus is not closed or treated.

In infants and young children with significant left-to-right shunting due to PDA, signs of heart failure may manifest as poor feeding, failure to thrive, rapid breathing, and difficulty in maintaining normal oxygen levels. If left untreated, persistent high pulmonary blood flow can lead to pulmonary hypertension, worsening heart function, and further complications.

Understanding this condition is crucial, as early detection and intervention are important to prevent the development of heart failure and other related complications.