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Direct Re-implantation of Left Coronary Artery into the Aorta in Adults with Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA)
13:10

Direct Re-implantation of Left Coronary Artery into the Aorta in Adults with Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA)

Published on: April 24, 2017

ALCAPA in an adult with preserved left ventricular function

Craig H Selzman1, Michael A Zimmerman, David N Campbell

  • 1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO 80262, USA. craig.selzman@uchsc.edu

Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|April 17, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital defect. This case highlights a rare adult presentation with preserved heart function, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and surgical repair.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease
  • Adult Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is the most frequent congenital coronary anomaly.
  • If left untreated, ALCAPA has a high mortality rate, with nearly 90% of patients dying within the first year of life.

Observation:

  • This report details a rare case of ALCAPA in a 23-year-old female.
  • The patient presented with completely preserved left ventricular function, an unusual finding for this condition.

Findings:

  • The case underscores the potential for adult presentation of ALCAPA.
  • Review of the literature examines the mechanisms behind this atypical presentation and discusses therapeutic strategies for adult patients.

Implications:

  • Early diagnosis and surgical correction are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with ALCAPA.
  • This case expands the understanding of ALCAPA presentations in adults and informs clinical management strategies.

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