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Atypical presentation of coarctation of aorta mimicking a spinal vascular malformation. A case report

A Yalavarthy1, A Chandrasekhar, R Rajeswaran

  • 1Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute Sri Ramachandra University; Chennai, India - dr_anusheela@yahoo.co.in.

The Neuroradiology Journal
|September 25, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Coarctation of the aorta, a congenital heart defect, rarely presents as a spinal complication. This case highlights a rare instance of aortic coarctation mimicking a spinal arteriovenous malformation in an adult.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Coarctation of the aorta is a significant congenital heart disease, typically presenting in infancy or early adulthood.
  • While cardiac and neurological complications are known, spinal manifestations are exceptionally rare.
  • The spectrum of presentation varies widely, from asymptomatic cases to severe systemic involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report an extremely rare case of coarctation of the aorta presenting as a spinal complication.
  • To highlight the diagnostic challenge posed by this uncommon presentation, mimicking a spinal arteriovenous malformation.
  • To emphasize the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing such rare conditions.

Main Methods:

  • A case study approach was employed.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was utilized for diagnosis.
  • Clinical presentation and imaging findings were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • A 40-year-old male presented with symptoms mimicking a spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
  • MRI revealed coarctation of the aorta as the underlying cause.
  • This represents a previously unreported presentation of coarctation of the aorta.

Conclusions:

  • Coarctation of the aorta can present with rare spinal complications that mimic other vascular abnormalities.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging like MRI is crucial for appropriate management.
  • This case expands the known clinical spectrum of coarctation of the aorta and its potential neurological sequelae.

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