person is diagnosed with atrial septal defect if a small hole or pit appears in the skin, usually in front of the upper ear (where the cartilage of the ear meets the face). If there is no infection, the person will not have any unusual symptoms of the disease.

Atrial septal defect is a congenital defect in children that has a small hole in the facial skin in front of the ear, leading into the cartilage area of the auricle. The atrial septal defect can become inflamed, swollen, and have a foul odor. Atrial septal defect usually occurs in the 6th week of pregnancy, and is more common in girls than boys.