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Aneurysmal dilatation of left atrial appendage diagnosed by cross sectional echocardiography and surgically removed
British Heart Journal
|January 1, 1985
Insights
An 18-year-old presented with atrial fibrillation and an unusual cardiac shadow. Echocardiography revealed a giant left atrial appendage aneurysm, which was surgically removed to prevent blood clots.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Left atrial appendage aneurysms are rare cardiac anomalies.
- Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of thromboembolism.
- Unusual cardiac shadows on radiography can indicate underlying pathology.
Abstract:
An isolated aneurysmal dilatation of the left atrial appendage was found in an 18 year old girl who presented with atrial fibrillation and an unusual cardiac shadow on routine chest radiographs. The diagnosis was made by cross sectional echocardiography. The giant appendage was excised to remove the risk of systemic embolism and the need for life long anticoagulation.