Which of the following are distinguishing features of tetralogy of Fallot?

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Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect characterized by a specific set of anatomical abnormalities. The correct answer highlights the core features associated with this condition, which are a ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary stenosis, right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy, and an overriding aorta.

Each of these features plays a critical role in the pathology and clinical presentation of tetralogy of Fallot. The ventricular septal defect allows for communication between the left and right ventricles, which leads to mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. Pulmonary stenosis causes a narrowing at the right ventricular outflow tract, leading to increased pressure and hypertrophy of the right ventricle as it works harder to push blood through the narrowed pathway. The overriding aorta, which straddles the left and right ventricles, further complicates the situation by allowing blood from both ventricles to flow into the aorta, contributing to inadequate oxygenation of the body.

Understanding these distinguishing features is crucial for recognizing the condition and managing its implications effectively. The other choices present combinations of defects that do not accurately reflect the classic description of tetralogy of Fallot or include features that are not typically seen in this specific congenital defect.

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