Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm
04:56

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Published on: August 1, 2025

A severe coarctation of aorta in a 72-year-old female: a case report

Evaggelos Kountouris1, Thomas Potsis, Dimitrios Nikas

  • 1Department of Cardiology, "G.Hatzikosta", General Hospital of Ioannina 45001 Ioannina Greece. kounte@otenet.gr

Cases Journal
|October 16, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Late diagnosis of aortic coarctation (CoA) in a 72-year-old female presented with dyspnea. Conservative management with antihypertensives was initiated, showing good clinical condition but inadequate blood pressure control after one year.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Case Reports

Background:

  • Aortic coarctation is a congenital heart defect typically diagnosed and treated in infancy or childhood.
  • Untreated aortic coarctation is associated with significantly reduced long-term survival rates.

Observation:

  • This case report details a 72-year-old female with a late diagnosis of aortic coarctation.
  • The patient remained asymptomatic until her seventh decade, presenting with exertional dyspnea and fatigue.

Findings:

  • The patient was managed conservatively with aggressive antihypertensive therapy.
  • One-year follow-up indicated a good clinical condition, though blood pressure remained inadequately controlled.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the possibility of late-presenting aortic coarctation in adults.
  • It underscores the importance of considering congenital heart defects in elderly patients with unexplained symptoms.
  • Effective long-term blood pressure management remains a challenge in such cases.

More Related Videos

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection06:26

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection

Published on: March 28, 2025

Related Concept Videos

Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Thoracic Aorta01:15

Thoracic Aorta

The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...