Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four heart defects that are present at birth. Symptoms of the condition include difficulty eating, failure to thrive, no weight gain or weight loss, sudden death or stroke.

The four defects present with Tetralogy of Fallot are:

1. A hole between the left and right ventricles of the heart.
2. Narrowed tube between the heart and lungs.
3. One aorta growing from both ventricles.
4. Thickening of the right ventricle muscles.

There are a variety of potential causes associated with Tetralogy of Fallot though no specific known cause has been determined. Some doctors believe poor maternal nutrition or viral infection during gestation could cause the condition.

Several tests are completed before diagnoses can be made. These will often include MRI, blood tests, EKG and cardiac catheterization.

Surgery to treat the condition is highly effective, in most cases. More than one surgery may be needed to repair all damage to the heart and restore proper blood flow between the heart and lungs.