Benign peptic ulcers penetrating pericardium and heart: clinicopathological features and factors favoring survival
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Benign peptic ulcers rarely penetrate the heart or pericardium. While historically fatal, recent survival rates are around 20%, emphasizing early diagnosis and surgical intervention for improved outcomes.
Area Of Science
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background
- Penetration of the pericardium and heart by benign peptic ulcers is a rare but serious clinical occurrence.
- Historically, this condition was almost invariably fatal, with survival rates improving in recent decades.
Observation
- This study reviews 91 cases from the literature and presents 4 representative cases of peptic ulcer perforation into the heart or pericardium.
- Predisposing factors included previous esophagogastric surgery, with ulcers originating from the esophagus, hiatus hernias, stomach, or anastomoses.
Findings
- The site of cardiac involvement (pericardial, atrial, or ventricular) significantly influences clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and prognosis.
- Penetrating esophageal ulcers showed a slightly better prognosis than gastric lesions.
Implications
- Distinct clinicopathological features necessitate tailored diagnostic and management strategies for each type of cardiac involvement.
- Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are critical for successful treatment, regardless of whether symptoms are primarily cardiac or gastrointestinal.