Which congenital heart defect requires measuring upper and lower extremity blood pressures?

Measuring upper and lower extremity blood pressures is essential in the evaluation of coarctation of the aorta. This congenital heart defect involves a narrowing of the aorta, typically just distal to the left subclavian artery. When coarctation occurs, there is a significant difference in blood pressure readings between the upper and lower parts of the body.

In coarctation of the aorta, blood flow to the upper body can remain normal or even increased, leading to higher blood pressures in the arms. Conversely, the lower body receives less blood flow due to the obstruction, resulting in lower blood pressures in the legs. This differential is a key clinical finding that helps in diagnosing the condition.

Prompt detection of coarctation is crucial, as the condition can lead to significant complications if left untreated, including hypertension in the upper body, heart failure, and other cardiovascular issues. Therefore, the practice of measuring blood pressures in both the upper and lower extremities is a critical part of the assessment for patients suspected of having this defect.