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Right-sided oropharyngeal cervical aortic arch.
Jared S Halpin1, Jeffrey R Kunin, Melissa L Rosado-de-Christenson
1University of Missouri, Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA.
Journal of Thoracic Imaging
|July 17, 2010
Summary
This study reports a rare oropharyngeal cervical aortic arch, the most cranial variant ever documented, associated with a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm. This unique case highlights complex aortic anomalies and their embryological origins.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Medical Imaging
- Embryology
Background:
- Cervical aortic arch is a rare congenital anomaly where the aortic arch is positioned superiorly.
- Thoracic aortic aneurysms are serious vascular conditions often associated with genetic or environmental factors.
- Understanding the embryological basis of aortic arch anomalies is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A unique case of an oropharyngeal cervical aortic arch, with the apex at the second cervical vertebra, is presented.
- The anomaly was associated with a spontaneously ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm.
- This represents the most cranial aortic arch location reported to date.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates an extremely rare cervical aortic arch variant, termed
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of cervical aortic arch anomalies and their potential complications.
- It underscores the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing complex congenital cardiovascular abnormalities.
- Further research into the embryology of cervical aortic arch may reveal new insights into aortic development and associated pathologies.
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