Cor triatriatum in adults: three new cases and a brief review

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Q Chen1, S Guhathakurta, G Vadalapali

  • 1The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Wellington Hospital, New Zealand.

Texas Heart Institute Journal
|October 19, 1999
PubMed

Insights

This study highlights three late-diagnosed cases of cor triatriatum, a rare congenital heart anomaly. Adult presentations vary significantly in symptoms and anatomy, emphasizing the need for awareness.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease
  • Medical Case Reports

Background:

  • Cor triatriatum is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly characterized by an intra-atrial septum dividing the left atrium.
  • Late diagnosis in adulthood is uncommon but presents unique challenges.

Observation:

  • Three adult patients (2 male, 1 female) were diagnosed with cor triatriatum in their 4th and 5th decades.
  • Clinical presentations and anatomical variations were substantial among the cases.
  • One female patient had a complex congenital anomaly, a frequent comorbidity.

Findings:

  • Late diagnosis of cor triatriatum can occur across a spectrum of adult ages.
  • Significant variability exists in both the anatomical and symptomatic manifestations of the condition.
  • Associated congenital anomalies are common, particularly in female patients.

Implications:

  • Increased clinical suspicion for cor triatriatum in adults with unexplained cardiac symptoms is warranted.
  • Understanding the diverse presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
  • Further research into late-diagnosed congenital heart anomalies can improve patient outcomes.

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