Indication of Cyanosis

Definition
Cyanosis is the abnormal blue discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an increase in the deoxygenated haemoglobin level to above 5 g/dL. Cyanosis can be divided into either central or peripheral.

Central Cyanosis vs Peripheral Cyanosis

Central Cyanosis * This is manifested by bluish or purple discoloration of tongue and lips and mucous membranes of the mouth It is seen in diseases of the heart or lungs and in abnormal haemoglobin conditions Usually central cyanosis is accompanied with features of peripheral cyanosis Other features like breathlessness, shortness of breath, bluish or purple discolouration of the oral mucous membranes, rapid and shallow breathing etc Peripheral Cyanosis This is caused by decreased blood circulation in the peripheral organs and limbs This may occur due to stasis or stagnation of blood and excessive extraction of oxygen from the blood making it deoxygenated and manifesting as cyanosis The affected areas turn bluish or purple and are cold to touch. It is commonly seen in the nail beds.

Causes of Cyanosis
Usually cyanosis in children is caused by either a heart or lung problem. Problems with the lungs cause cyanosis because oxygen is not effectively delivered from the lungs into the bloodstream Heart problems that cause cyanosis tend to do so by allowing blood to bypass the lungs completely. Cyanotic heart defects such as tetralogy of Fallot, tricuspid atresia, pulmonary atresia, and transposition of the great arteries result in significant cyanosis because the blood bypasses the lungs completely and returns immediately back to the body Blood abnormalities also cause cynosis. Its happen when blood decrease its ability to absorb oxygen and carried it to all part of the body