Cor triatriatum dexter: two-dimensional echocardiographic diagnosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Embryology
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Cor triatriatum dexter is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly.
• It arises from the incomplete regression of the embryonic right valve of the sinus venosus.
• This malformation results in the right atrium being divided into two chambers by a membrane.

Observation:

• Two-dimensional echocardiography was employed for the antemortem diagnosis of this condition.
• The diagnostic imaging was performed on a neonate presenting with this rare cardiac anomaly.
• Associated cardiac lesions were also identified and documented during the diagnostic process.

Findings:

• The study successfully utilized two-dimensional echocardiography for the antemortem diagnosis of cor triatriatum dexter.
• The presence of associated cardiac lesions was confirmed.
• Autopsy findings corroborated the echocardiographic diagnosis and documented the extent of the malformation.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of two-dimensional echocardiography in diagnosing rare congenital heart defects like cor triatriatum dexter in neonates.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for managing associated cardiac lesions.
• Understanding the embryological basis aids in recognizing and potentially predicting such anomalies.