Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Draining into the Azygos System

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Congenital Heart Disease
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) is a rare congenital heart defect.
• It often remains undiagnosed until adulthood, presenting with symptoms like dyspnea.
• Consideration in patients with unexplained right heart dilation or pulmonary hypertension is important.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic considerations for PAPVC in adult patients.
• To emphasize the role of multimodal cardiac imaging in identifying PAPVC and associated anomalies.
• To underscore the importance of early diagnosis for surgical referral and complication prevention.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 45-year-old woman with repaired atrial septal defect and new symptoms.
• Utilized cardiac computed tomography (CT) for diagnosis.
• Reviewed clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and management implications.

Main Results:

• Cardiac CT revealed a right-sided PAPVC draining into the azygos system.
• The patient was referred for surgical intervention due to persistent symptoms.
• PAPVC was identified as the likely cause of progressive dyspnea and reduced exercise tolerance.

Conclusions:

• PAPVC should be considered in adults with unexplained right heart abnormalities, tricuspid regurgitation, or pulmonary hypertension.
• Multimodal cardiac imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.
• Timely identification and management of PAPVC are critical to prevent complications.