Idiopathic right atrial enlargement

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Idiopathic right atrial enlargement is a rare condition.
• Chronic right heart failure can lead to significant cardiac chamber dilation.

Observation:

• A 26-year-old male presented with a 5-year history of lower extremity edema, abdominal protrusion, and dyspnea.
• Echocardiography revealed a massive right atrium (19.5 × 15.2 cm) with a "smoke-like" pattern and severe tricuspid regurgitation.
• Pulmonary perfusion scans indicated multiple perfusion defects, suggestive of recurrent pulmonary emboli.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with idiopathic enlargement of the right atrium.
• Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed an intact pericardium.
• Severe tricuspid regurgitation and signs of chronic pulmonary emboli were noted.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare cause of massive right atrial enlargement.
• Understanding the diagnostic imaging findings is crucial for identifying such conditions.
• Further research into the pathophysiology and management of idiopathic right atrial enlargement is warranted.