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Left Atrial Appendage Aneurysm: A Case Report and Literature Review
Juan D Ayala Torres1, Jorge Alejandro Sepulveda Gallego1, Mateo Gonzalez Gonzalez2
1Radiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, COL.
Cureus
|April 16, 2024
Summary
Left atrial appendage aneurysms are rare, challenging to diagnose, and can cause serious complications like heart failure. Management involves surgery and medical strategies to prevent adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Left atrial appendage aneurysm (LAAA) is an uncommon cardiac condition with diverse clinical presentations.
- Diagnosis is often incidental via imaging, with symptoms varying from mild to severe, including heart failure and thromboembolic events.
Observation:
- A case study highlights diagnostic challenges, with a 67-year-old woman's LAAA and intracavitary thrombus identified via tomography.
- Despite successful surgical resection, the patient experienced fatal infectious complications.
Findings:
- LAAA diagnosis typically occurs around age 30, with no significant gender prevalence despite a slight tendency in women.
- Surgical resection is the primary treatment, particularly for severe cases, though watchful waiting is an option for some patients.
Implications:
- Multidisciplinary approaches are essential for managing LAAA and improving patient outcomes.
- Early diagnosis and timely, appropriate treatment are critical for preventing severe complications and enhancing quality of life.
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