Common atrioventricular canal in a foal

Abstract

A 3-week-old Thoroughbred colt was presented for weakness and cyanosis. A pansystolic regurgitant murmur and other physical findings suggested that the foal developed pulmonary oedema as a consequence of congenital heart disease. A large atrial septal defect, a high ventricular septal defect and dysplasia of the atrioventricular valves were visualised echocardiographically. A persistent common atrioventricular canal was observed at necropsy.