Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026
11:27
A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn
Published on: April 7, 2023
Left partial absence of the pericardium
Diagnostic Imaging in Clinical Medicine
|January 1, 1986
Summary
A rare case of partial absence of the pericardium was diagnosed in a young patient. Computerized tomography proved essential for identifying typical diagnostic features of this congenital heart anomaly.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Congenital Abnormalities
Background:
- Congenital absence of the pericardium is a rare condition, often asymptomatic.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to non-specific symptoms and imaging findings.
Observation:
- A young patient presented with clinical signs suggestive of a cardiac anomaly.
- Initial investigations included plain radiography and 2-D echocardiography.
Findings:
- Plain radiography provided suggestive, but not definitive, evidence.
- 2-D echocardiography was primarily useful for excluding other cardiac abnormalities.
- Computerized tomography (CT) enabled a definitive diagnosis by revealing characteristic features of left partial absence of the pericardium.
Implications:
- This case highlights the utility of CT in diagnosing pericardial defects.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for understanding potential associated risks and management.
- Further research into the long-term outcomes of partial pericardial absence is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:13Location and Orientation of the Heart
The human heart, despite its modest size and weight, is an organ of remarkable strength and endurance. Roughly the size of a fist, the heart weighs between 250 and 350 grams and is nestled within the mediastinum, the medial cavity of the thorax. It extends obliquely for about 12 to 14 cm, resting on the superior surface of the diaphragm. The heart is positioned anterior to the vertebral column and posterior to the sternum, with two-thirds of its mass lying to the left of the midsternal line.
01:15Layers of the Heart Wall
The heart wall comprises three distinct layers: the epicardium, myocardium, and endocardium. The outermost layer, the epicardium, is the visceral layer of the serous pericardium, featuring a thin, transparent mesothelial surface and an inner layer of areolar connective tissue with fat deposits that increase with age.
The myocardium, the thickest layer, consists of cardiac muscle cells interconnected by intercalated discs and crisscrossing connective tissue fibers. These muscle fibers contract...
The myocardium, the thickest layer, consists of cardiac muscle cells interconnected by intercalated discs and crisscrossing connective tissue fibers. These muscle fibers contract...
01:29Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings I: Inspection and Palpation
In a cardiovascular examination, inspection and palpation are crucial for identifying abnormalities.
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
01:25Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings II: Auscultation
Auscultation, an essential part of a heart examination, is done using a stethoscope. It provides crucial information about heart function and possible heart problems. Due to heart problems, abnormal sounds can be heard during systole or diastole. These sounds include S3 and S4 gallops, opening snaps, systolic clicks, and murmurs.
Abnormal Heart Sounds
Gallops:
Abnormal Heart Sounds
Gallops:
01:22Pericarditis I: Introduction
Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...
01:19Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Pericarditis is distinguished by inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac that encases the heart. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, persisting for over three months. Understanding its clinical manifestations and diagnostic findings is crucial for timely and effective management.Clinical ManifestationsWhile pericarditis can be asymptomatic, it usually presents with characteristic symptoms such as:Chest Pain: The most characteristic symptom of pericarditis is chest...