Cor Triatriatum Dexter as an Incidental Finding: Role of Two-Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiography

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Congenital Heart Disease
• Embryology

Background:

• Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly characterized by a membranous partition within the right atrium.
• It results from the persistence of the right valve of the sinus venosus, which normally regresses during embryonic development.
• CTD is often associated with other right-sided congenital heart abnormalities.

Observation:

• This report details a case of CTD identified incidentally during transthoracic echocardiography.
• The patient's clinical presentation varied based on the degree of right atrial partitioning.
• Two-dimensional echocardiography was utilized for diagnosis.

Findings:

• The study presents a case of Cor triatriatum dexter, a rare congenital heart malformation.
• Echocardiography confirmed the presence of a membranous structure dividing the right atrium.
• Associated congenital abnormalities were noted, consistent with the condition's high incidence.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing Cor triatriatum dexter in clinical practice.
• Two-dimensional echocardiography serves as a valuable noninvasive tool for diagnosing CTD.
• Understanding the embryological basis aids in diagnosing and managing associated cardiac anomalies.