Persistent fetal circulation. Two cases with myocardial dysfunction and severe acidosis.

Two neonates with the most severe form of persistent fetal circulation are described. Their presentation mimicked severe congenital heart disease. As well as persistent pulmonary hypertension and right-to-left shunting through the ductus arteriosus, they had poor myocardial contractility and atrioventricular valve regurgitation. Associated acidaemia was extreme. They survived with medical management, and the functional abnormalities resolved.