Coarctation of aorta is most commonly associated with –
**Core Concept**
Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic isthmus, typically affecting the descending aorta just distal to the left subclavian artery. This abnormality leads to increased resistance to blood flow, resulting in hypertension above the coarctation and decreased blood pressure below it.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The association between coarctation of the aorta and Turner syndrome is well-established, with approximately 30% of patients with Turner syndrome exhibiting this cardiac anomaly. The pathophysiology behind this link is not fully understood but may be related to the genetic abnormalities that affect aortic development. The presence of coarctation of the aorta in Turner syndrome often necessitates surgical intervention to alleviate the associated hypertension and prevent cardiovascular complications.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** While bicuspid aortic valve is a common congenital heart defect, it is not as strongly associated with coarctation of the aorta as Turner syndrome. Bicuspid aortic valve can be seen in isolation or in combination with other cardiac anomalies.
**Option B:** Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting the cardiovascular system, particularly the aorta, but it is not as commonly linked to coarctation of the aorta as Turner syndrome. Marfan syndrome is more typically associated with aortic dilatation and dissection.
**Option C:** Hypertension is a common consequence of coarctation of the aorta, but it is not a distinct entity that is most commonly associated with this condition. Hypertension can be seen in various contexts, including primary hypertension, secondary hypertension, and other cardiac anomalies.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Coarctation of the aorta often presents with a "rib notching" sign on chest radiography, which is caused by the erosion of the inferior surface of the ribs due to the enlarged intercostal arteries that compensate for the decreased blood flow to the lower body.
**Correct Answer: B. Turner syndrome.**