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Aortic Root Dilatation With Healed Aortic Root Abscess, Asymptomatic for 41 Years
Akshit Chitkara1, Anamika2, Varun Kumar Sharma3
1Internal Medicine, Sh. Moolchand Super Speciality Hospital, Karnal, IND.
Cureus
|October 5, 2020
Summary
Aortic root dilatation with a healed aortic root abscess can remain asymptomatic for decades. Long-term management involves regular follow-ups and addressing comorbid conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Aortic root dilatation (AoD) with a history of aortic root abscess (ARA) can present asymptomatically.
- A 61-year-old male with a history of aortic regurgitation (AR) and healed ARA presented with mild respiratory symptoms.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old male presented with mild respiratory symptoms and an audible aortic regurgitation (AR) murmur.
- Past medical history included AR diagnosed in 1976 and AoD with healed ARA in 1990.
- Echocardiography showed mild left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and Grade 1 LV diastolic dysfunction without wall motion abnormalities.
Findings:
- The patient remained asymptomatic from his AoD and healed ARA for over two decades.
- The current presentation was attributed to mild respiratory illness, not directly to the underlying aortic pathology.
- Medical management with losartan was initiated to address mild LVH and prevent complications.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of long-term asymptomatic progression of AoD with healed ARA.
- Emphasizes the importance of regular echocardiographic follow-up (1-2 years) for managing such rare conditions.
- Reinforces the need for comprehensive management including comorbid conditions and lifestyle adjustments.
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