Can a echo or ct scan of the chest diagnose a left to right shunt or atrial septec defect? asd? if not what are the best tests for these two ?

Echo best: Usually an echo will identify these and is first line. A ct chest might pick it up if contrasted study and timing right. Talk to your dr or a cardiologist for evaluation.

Echocardiogram: Is the best initial study. Injection of microbubble contrast may be used if a shunt is suspected.

Echo: Usually best imaging test is an esophageal echo. This takes a direct look at the heart and can usually see the atrial septal defect.

Typically: If I am looking for a shunt as the cause of hypoxia, I will order an ECHO with bubble contrast.