Published online Apr 16, 2014. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v2.i4.90
Revised: January 12, 2014
Accepted: March 13, 2014
Published online: April 16, 2014
Processing time: 183 Days and 9 Hours
Left ventricular (LV) pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication that is reported in less than 0.1% of all patients with myocardial infarction. It is the result of cardiac rupture contained by the pericardium and is characterized by the absence of myocardial tissue in its wall unlike true aneurysm which involves full thickness of the cardiac wall. The clinical presentation of these patients is nonspecific, making the diagnosis challenging. Transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging are the noninvasive modalities whereas coronary arteriography and left ventriculography are invasive modalities used for the diagnosis. As this condition is lethal, prompt diagnosis and timely management is vital.
Core tip: Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm is a rare and lethal condition. It can be challenging to diagnose as it has an ambiguous clinical presentation. Timely recognition and management is critical and can be lifesaving.