As a medical professional with expertise in pediatric cardiology, I can provide you with information regarding "blue baby syndrome," which is also known as cyanotic heart disease. This condition is characterized by a baby's skin, lips, and nails turning blue due to a lack of oxygen in the blood.

Hereditary Factors:
While some congenital heart defects can have a genetic component, not all cases of cyanotic heart disease are hereditary. The condition can arise from various factors, including environmental influences, maternal health during pregnancy, and random errors during fetal development. However, if there is a family history of congenital heart defects, the risk for the baby to have a similar condition may be slightly higher.

**Environmental and Maternal Health Factors:**
Maternal health is crucial during pregnancy. Exposure to certain infections, medications, or substances during pregnancy can increase the risk of heart defects in the baby. Proper prenatal care and avoiding known teratogens are essential in reducing these risks.

Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis of cyanotic heart disease is typically made shortly after birth when the newborn's symptoms become apparent. Treatment options vary depending on the specific defect but may include surgery, medication, or a combination of both.

Prevention:
While not all cases can be prevented, taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy can help prevent certain neural tube defects, and maintaining good health during pregnancy can reduce the risk of various congenital issues.

In conclusion, while there can be a genetic predisposition to certain heart defects, blue baby syndrome itself is not strictly hereditary. It is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors.

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SNPwatch: Common Genetic Factors Associated with ��Blue Babies�� New research suggests that a once-fatal congenital heart defect �C sometimes called ��blue baby syndrome�� �C is influenced by genetic factors that are broadly found in the general population.read more >>