Massive calcification of giant left atrium in a rheumatic mitral stenosis patient: A case report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiac Surgery
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Giant left atrium (GLA) is defined as left atrial enlargement with a diameter exceeding 80 mm.
• GLA is often associated with chronic rheumatic mitral valve disease.
• Complications include atrial fibrillation and thromboembolic events like cerebral infarction.

Observation:

• A case of GLA with massive calcification is presented.
• The patient is a female with a history of rheumatic heart disease.
• She also had severe mitral stenosis, permanent atrial fibrillation, and prior cerebral infarctions.

Findings:

• The patient presented with a giant left atrium and extensive calcification.
• The underlying cause was long-standing rheumatic heart disease.
• Associated conditions included severe mitral stenosis, atrial fibrillation, and stroke history.

Implications:

• This case underscores the severe manifestations of rheumatic heart disease.
• Massive calcification in GLA poses unique clinical and surgical challenges.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for patient management and outcomes.