Large infero-posterior wall pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle: an unusual presentation

Ital Heart J. 2002 Dec;3(12):758-61.

Abstract

Post-myocardial infarction left ventricular pseudoaneurysm resulting from free wall rupture is a rare finding and its recognition during life is uncommon. The diagnosis is difficult since symptoms, clinical evaluation and electrocardiographic and X-ray findings are usually non-specific. We herein present a case of a pseudoaneurysm manifesting after a silent myocardial infarction and diagnosed at echocardiography in a patient who, at the time of hospitalization, had a history and clinical and laboratory findings suggestive of pulmonary embolism. The patient was successfully operated. The present report underlines the diagnostic and prognostic value of two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography. The clinical and laboratory findings are also discussed in the light of the recent literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aneurysm, False / diagnosis*
  • Aneurysm, False / etiology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Echocardiography
  • Heart Aneurysm / diagnosis*
  • Heart Aneurysm / etiology
  • Heart Ventricles
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Infarction / complications
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis