Calcified left ventricular aneurysm: Delayed thrombus formation leading to multiorgan thrombosis

Ahmed Elmi Abdi1, Can Baba Arin1,2, Shuayb Moalim Ali1,3

  • 1Cardiology Department, Mogadishu Somali Türkiye Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia.

Radiology Case Reports
|March 25, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Delayed thrombus formation in a calcified left ventricular aneurysm (LVA) led to multi-organ thrombosis. Prompt diagnosis with imaging and anticoagulation treatment were crucial for successful management of this rare cardiovascular complication.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Left ventricular aneurysms (LVAs) following myocardial infarction can harbor thrombi, posing an embolic risk.
  • Thromboembolic events from LVAs can lead to severe, multi-organ complications.
  • Calcified LVAs represent a specific subset with potential for delayed thrombus formation.

Observation:

  • A 55-year-old male presented with severe abdominal pain and confusion, without typical cardiac symptoms.
  • Physical examination revealed bilateral leg edema and a significant cardiac murmur.
  • Investigations showed signs of inflammation and evidence of prior myocardial infarction on ECG.

Findings:

  • Echocardiography identified a large, calcified apical LVA with a mural thrombus and reduced ejection fraction.
  • CT imaging confirmed the calcified LVA and revealed extensive thrombi in the superior mesenteric artery, mesenteric vein, splenic vein, and portal vein.
  • The patient experienced multi-organ thrombosis secondary to embolization from the calcified LVA.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the critical importance of prompt diagnosis and management of delayed thrombus formation in calcified LVAs.
  • Comprehensive imaging, including echocardiography and CT, is vital for diagnosing thromboembolic events, especially in resource-limited settings.
  • Anticoagulation therapy proved effective in managing multi-organ thrombosis, preventing surgical intervention and improving patient outcomes.