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Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
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Published on: June 11, 2019

Giant right coronary artery aneurysm presenting as a mediastinal mass

P Banerjee1, T Houghton, M Walters

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, Kingston upon Hull, HU16 5JQ, U. pbanerjee@ukonline.co.uk

Heart (British Cardiac Society)
|August 18, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Giant coronary artery aneurysms, often asymptomatic, can present with serious cardiac events like myocardial infarction. This case highlights a giant coronary artery aneurysm mimicking a mediastinal mass, emphasizing its importance in differential diagnoses.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) are typically atherosclerotic and often asymptomatic.
  • However, CAAs can manifest with severe symptoms including angina, myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death.
  • Giant CAAs are rare and pose diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

  • A case report details a giant right coronary artery aneurysm.
  • The aneurysm presented as acute myocardial infarction.
  • Initial imaging (echocardiography) suggested a mediastinal mass.

Findings:

  • Computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging provided diagnostic clues.
  • Coronary angiography confirmed the diagnosis of a giant right coronary artery aneurysm.
  • The aneurysm's presentation mimicked a mediastinal mass.

Implications:

  • Coronary artery aneurysms must be considered in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal masses.
  • Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management are vital for preventing adverse cardiovascular events.

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