Asymptomatic Coarctation of the Aorta in Adults with Preserved Exercise Capacity
Haruwo Tashiro1, Wakana Sato2, Katsuhito Seki2
1Division of Advanced Arrhythmia Management, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan.
Insights
This case report highlights a 56-year-old man with asymptomatic coarctation of the aorta (CoA) and preserved exercise capacity. The findings are significant as CoA is rarely diagnosed in adults without severe anomalies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital narrowing of the aorta.
- CoA is typically diagnosed in childhood, with adult diagnosis often linked to severe associated anomalies.
- Asymptomatic presentation in adulthood with preserved exercise capacity is uncommon.
Abstract:
We herein report a case of coarctation of the aorta (CoA) in an asymptomatic adult who had a preserved exercise capacity. A 56-year-old man with mild hypertension exhibited left ventricular hypertrophy on an electrocardiogram during an annual medical checkup. Echocardiography showed a bicuspid aortic valve and cor triatriatum sinister, and subsequent computed tomography revealed CoA with developed collaterals. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing showed a good exercise capacity. He refused surgical repair and has been asymptomatic for five years. This case is of special interest, as CoA is usually rarely noticed during adulthood if there are no severe congenital anomalies, and in addition, this patient had good exercise capacity.
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