A premature infant is born with a patent ductus aeriosus. Its closure can be stimulated by administration of-
## **Core Concept**
The patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a vascular structure that connects the aorta and pulmonary artery in the fetus. Normally, it closes shortly after birth. In premature infants, the ductus arteriosus may fail to close, leading to a patent ductus arteriosus. Pharmacological closure of PDA is often necessary in such cases.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, , works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins, particularly prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), play a crucial role in maintaining the patency of the ductus arteriosus. **Indomethacin**, a non-selective COX inhibitor, decreases prostaglandin production, leading to constriction and eventual closure of the ductus arteriosus. This is a common strategy for managing PDA in premature infants.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** - This option is incorrect because is not typically used for the closure of PDA.
* **Option B:** - This option is incorrect because is not relevant to PDA closure.
* **Option D:** - This option is incorrect because is not used for PDA closure; instead, is the correct agent.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that **indomethacin** is specifically used to promote the closure of a patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. This is a critical pharmacological strategy in neonatal care.
## **Correct Answer Line**
**Correct Answer: C. Indomethacin**.