Two Congenital Left-to-Right Shunt Anomalies in a Septuagenarian: ARare Occurrence

Hunaina Shahab1, Sonia Yaqub1, Aamir Hameed Khan1

  • 1Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

Insights

This case study highlights a rare instance of an elderly woman diagnosed with both atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The survival of this patient with these congenital heart defects beyond average life expectancy is noteworthy.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease
  • Geriatric Medicine

Background:

  • Atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) are common congenital heart anomalies in childhood.
  • Significant ASD or uncorrected PDA can lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and reduced life expectancy.

Observation:

  • A 70-year-old woman presented with dyspnea, hypertension, and heart failure symptoms.
  • Diagnostic findings revealed co-existing PDA and ASD with a left-to-right shunt.

Findings:

  • This represents a rare presentation of dual congenital heart defects in a septuagenarian.
  • The patient was managed conservatively and declined cardiac catheterization.

Implications:

  • This case challenges typical outcomes for uncorrected congenital heart disease.
  • It underscores the possibility of prolonged survival with these conditions, even into old age.
  • Highlights the importance of considering congenital heart disease in elderly patients presenting with heart failure symptoms.

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