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Congential giant aneurysms of the left atrial appendage: diagnosis and management
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA. jpgold@cornell.edu
Insights
Giant congenital intrapericardial aneurysms are rare heart conditions, often found in young patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications like arrhythmias and stroke.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Defects
- Cardiac Surgery
Background:
- Giant congenital intrapericardial aneurysms (GCIA) of the left atrial appendage and body are exceptionally rare cardiac anomalies.
- Fewer than 50 cases have been documented in medical literature.
- These aneurysms predominantly affect young, otherwise healthy individuals.
Observation:
- The index case involves a 34-year-old woman diagnosed with a giant left atrial aneurysm.
- The patient presented with intermittent palpitations and sinus tachycardia.
- This highlights the potential for symptomatic presentation even in young adults.
Findings:
- GCIA can lead to significant clinical manifestations, including persistent arrhythmias.
- Untreated aneurysms pose a risk of embolic events, such as stroke.
- Literature review covers diagnosis, potential morbidity, and surgical management strategies.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention are vital for managing GCIA.
- Understanding the natural history and treatment options can improve patient outcomes.
- Further research into the etiology and long-term management of these rare aneurysms is warranted.
Abstract:
Giant congenital intrapericardial aneurysms of the left atrial appendage and body are unusual cardiac anomalies. Only 48 cases have been previously reported in the literature, with the vast majority presenting in otherwise healthy young patients. These can present clinically with persistent arrhythmias and progress to stroke if not diagnosed and treated. Our index case is that of a 34-year-old woman discovered to have a giant left atrial aneurysm who developed intermittent palpitations with sinus tachycardia. We present a review of the literature pertaining to their diagnosis, potential morbidity, and surgical management.