Coarctation of the aorta presenting as systemic hypertension in a young adult

Jorge R Alegria1, Harold M Burkhart, Heidi M Connolly

  • 1University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.

Insights

A young male with hypertension had severe aortic coarctation and an ascending aortic aneurysm. Surgical repair involving aortic bypass grafting and ascending aorta replacement was successful, requiring lifelong follow-up.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • A 20-year-old male with a history of systemic hypertension.
  • Presented with a systolic murmur, early ejection click, and diminished femoral pulses.

Observation:

  • Physical examination, laboratory tests, ECG, chest X-ray, echocardiography, and CT chest were performed.
  • Diagnostic findings revealed severe juxtaductal aortic coarctation.
  • Associated conditions included an ascending aortic aneurysm, bicuspid aortic valve, and atrial septal defect.

Findings:

  • Surgical intervention included an ascending-descending intrapericardial aortic bypass graft.
  • Atrial septal defect closure and ascending aorta replacement were successfully completed.
  • The patient's bicuspid aortic valve did not require intervention for stenosis or regurgitation.

Implications:

  • Successful surgical management of complex aortic coarctation and aneurysm in a young patient.
  • Highlights the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular assessment in hypertensive individuals.
  • Lifelong medical follow-up is essential for managing these complex cardiovascular conditions.
Abstract

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