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[A case of tricuspid annular calcification]
N Sugihara1, M Matsuzaki, Y Kato
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ube First Hospital.
Nihon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi. Japanese Journal of Geriatrics
|November 1, 1991
Summary
This study reports a case of tricuspid annular calcification in an elderly male patient with pulmonary emphysema. The condition was diagnosed using advanced imaging and may be linked to aging or emphysema.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- A 76-year-old male presented with respiratory symptoms including productive cough, dyspnea, and cyanosis.
- Initial chest X-ray revealed pulmonary emphysema and acute bronchitis without intracardiac calcification.
Observation:
- Electrocardiogram showed a peaked P-wave, left bundle branch block, and ventricular premature contractions.
- Chest tomography identified abnormal intracardiac calcium deposition in the right heart.
- Echocardiography confirmed tricuspid annular calcification (10 x 14 mm) with normal tricuspid valve function.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited left ventricular dilatation, mild mitral regurgitation, and impaired systolic function (EF 49%).
- Serum examination was positive for a Wassermann reaction.
Implications:
- Tricuspid annular calcification in this case may be attributed to age-related atherosclerotic changes.
- An association with pulmonary emphysema is also considered as a potential contributing factor.