Quadricuspid pulmonic valve found on well exam.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Anatomical Variations

Background:

• Quadricuspid pulmonic valve (QPV) is an uncommon congenital heart anomaly.
• It is typically considered benign and often found incidentally.
• The full physiological impact of QPV remains incompletely understood due to its rarity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of QPV discovered in a young active-duty soldier during a routine check-up.
• To review current literature on QPV.
• To provide recommendations for optimal diagnostic strategies for QPV.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a young soldier with incidentally discovered QPV.
• Comprehensive literature review of quadricuspid pulmonic valve cases and physiology.
• Analysis of diagnostic imaging modalities for QPV detection and assessment.

Main Results:

• A case of QPV was identified in an asymptomatic young soldier via imaging.
• Literature review indicates QPV is rare, with potential underestimation of its physiological effects.
• Current diagnostic modalities are discussed with recommendations for effective use.

Conclusions:

• QPV, though often benign, warrants careful consideration due to potential underappreciated physiological consequences.
• Early and accurate diagnosis through appropriate imaging is crucial.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term implications of QPV.