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Aberrant Shape of the Heart, "Gourd Shaped": A Rare Case of Localized Constrictive Pericarditis

S Rajbhandari1, S Joshi1, N Bhattarai2

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, Bansbari, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Kathmandu University Medical Journal (KUMJ)
|June 1, 2025
PubMed

Insights

This case report highlights a rare instance of calcific constrictive pericarditis with localized calcification. Early diagnosis and treatment, potentially including pericardiectomy, are crucial for managing this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Calcific constrictive pericarditis is often caused by tuberculosis in developing nations.
  • Localized calcification in constrictive pericarditis is uncommon.
  • Gourd-shaped heart distortion due to atrioventricular groove calcification is exceptionally rare.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present an extremely rare case of calcific constrictive pericarditis with localized calcification.
  • To emphasize the significance of early diagnosis and treatment for this condition.

Main Methods:

  • Echocardiography was utilized for diagnostic and hemodynamic evaluation.
  • Computed tomography (CT) was employed for comprehensive assessment.

Main Results:

  • The study details a unique presentation of calcific constrictive pericarditis.
  • Diagnostic imaging confirmed the localized calcification and cardiac distortion.

Conclusions:

  • Early diagnosis and intervention are vital for managing calcific constrictive pericarditis.
  • Pericardiectomy offers a curative treatment, though consensus on its use in localized calcification cases is evolving.
  • Medical therapy is a viable alternative when surgical intervention is uncertain.

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