Shortness of Breath on Exertion: A (Cardiac Magnetic Resonance) Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

J Cardiovasc Echogr. 2017 Oct-Dec;27(4):159-160. doi: 10.4103/jcecho.jcecho_25_17.

Abstract

This is the case of a 78-year-old male patient that underwent a cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) due to shortness of breath. An unanticipated diagnosis of a giant pseudoaneurysm with a "guitar-like" appearance was made and patient was sent for urgent ventriculoplasty. CMR offered striking illustrative images allowing for previously unsuspected diagnosis to be made and patient's therapeutic management modified. Moreover, in this case, we emphasize the paramount importance of differentiating between true aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, clefts, and diverticuli since each pathology has completely different management and prognosis that vary from benign to potentially fatal if not immediately treated.

Keywords: Acute myocardial infarction mechanical complication; cardiac magnetic resonance; giant pseudoaneurysm.

Publication types

  • Case Reports