Pseudo-aneurysm of left ventricle presenting as non-resolving chronic pericardial effusion

Rajeev Bhardwaj1, Arvind Kandoria, Arvind Sood

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla.

Insights

Left ventricular pseudo-aneurysm, a type of left ventricular free wall rupture, presents as localized blood collection. This case highlights a late-onset pseudo-aneurysm mimicking non-resolving pericardial effusion.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Left ventricular pseudo-aneurysm is a rare complication of left ventricular free wall rupture.
  • It involves blood collection within the pericardial sac through a defect in the ventricular wall.

Observation:

  • Unlike a typical rupture, the blood in a pseudo-aneurysm is confined to a localized area due to adhesions between the ventricle and pericardium.
  • This case presents a late-onset ventricular pseudo-aneurysm.

Findings:

  • The pseudo-aneurysm mimicked a non-resolving pericardial effusion.
  • This presentation can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Implications:

  • Understanding this variation is crucial for accurate diagnosis of pericardial effusions.
  • Early recognition of ventricular pseudo-aneurysm can prevent serious complications.

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