Cor triatriatum simulating a left atrial mass in adult patient

Alexandre Semionov1, Juan Batlle2, Karl Sayegh2

  • 1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal General Hospital, 1650 Cedar Ave., Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada.

Radiology Case Reports
|February 17, 2023
PubMed

Insights

A rare heart condition, cor triatriatum sinister, can mimic a cardiac mass on CT scans. This case highlights the importance of advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis in patients with chest pain.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Cor triatriatum sinister is a rare congenital heart anomaly.
  • It involves an abnormal membrane dividing the left atrium.
  • This can lead to symptoms mimicking other cardiac conditions.

Observation:

  • A 58-year-old man presented with acute chest pain.
  • A thoracic CT angiogram suggested a cardiac mass.
  • Cardiovascular work-up, including cardiac CT and MRI, was performed.

Findings:

  • The cardiac mass was determined to be non-thrombosed.
  • The diagnosis of cor triatriatum sinister was established.
  • The condition was considered presumably coincidental.

Implications:

  • Cor triatriatum sinister can present atypically, mimicking other pathologies.
  • Advanced imaging modalities are crucial for differentiating cardiac masses from congenital anomalies.
  • Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management and treatment planning.

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