The two types of heart disease in children are "congenital" and "acquired." Congenital heart disease (also known as a congenital heart defect) is present at birth. Some defects in this category are patent ductus arteriosis, atrial septal defects and ventricular septal defects. Acquired heart disease, which develops sometime during childhood, includes diseases such as Kawasaki disease, rheumatic fever and infective endocarditis. Common diagnostic tests for these diseases are explained here.

About 40,000 children are born with a heart defect each year. Most of these children can benefit from surgery even if the defect is severe. When surgery is necessary, many medical treatments are available to help the heart work properly. There is nothing that parents could have done to prevent these defects. Learn about conditions that can interfere with the work of the heart and treatment options in this section.

Kawasaki disease is an example of acquired heart disease that occurs primarily in children who are 5 years old or younger. Although medical knowledge of the disease is still developing, there are steps you can take to recognize the symptoms and deal with the disease's effects.

At least 8 of every 1,000 infants born each year have a heart defect. About 1 million Americans with cardiovascular defects are alive today. Though research is ongoing, at least 35 defects have now been identified.

Legacy of Life Endowment
The Legacy of Life is an American Heart Association campaign to raise $1 million for congenital heart defect research. This endowment will provide a perpetual funding source for congenital heart defect. Learn More...

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