Pentalogy of Fallot(PoF)
Also known as: Fallot-Pentalogie · Fallot'sche Pentalogie · Congenital heart defect PoF
Overview
What it is
Pentalogy of Fallot is a severe, complex heart defect present from birth that involves five distinct structural abnormalities in the heart and its main blood vessels. These malformations prevent the heart from pumping blood efficiently, causing oxygen-poor blood to circulate throughout the body instead of going to the lungs. This leads to a chronic lack of oxygen in the dog's tissues and organs.
How it presents
Symptoms typically become noticeable during puppyhood and include rapid exhaustion, shortness of breath during exercise, and a bluish tint to the gums or tongue.
Treatment
While the condition cannot be cured, it is managed with lifelong palliative medications and regular heart checkups to support the dog's quality of life. Lifetime treatment and monitoring costs typically range from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pentalogy of Fallot?
Pentalogy of Fallot is a severe, complex heart defect present from birth that involves five distinct structural abnormalities in the heart and its main blood vessels. These malformations prevent the heart from pumping blood efficiently, causing oxygen-poor blood to circulate throughout the body instead of going to the lungs. This leads to a chronic lack of oxygen in the dog's tissues and organs.
How is Pentalogy of Fallot tested?
Tests currently in our database: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.