What best defines a congenital heart defect?

• A. An acquired problem in adulthood
• B. A structural problem with the heart present at birth (such as a hole in the cardiac septum)
• C. An infection of heart valves
• D. A rhythm disturbance

Answer: (B)

A congenital heart defect is a structural abnormality of the heart or its vessels that is present at birth, reflecting problems in how the heart formed in the womb. This means the defect exists from birth rather than developing later. Holes in the heart’s septum are classic examples, but there are other structural issues as well, such as valve malformations or abnormal connections between vessels. This definition sets it apart from conditions that arise after birth—like infections of heart valves or rhythm disturbances—which are not congenital. Some defects cause noticeable symptoms early and require surgical repair, while others are mild and may be monitored over time.