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Secundum ASD

Case contributed by: Dr Erik Ranschaert

Presentation:

61-year old woman with with no prior cardiac history and mild exertional dyspnea

From the case: Secundum ASD

Modality: CT

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C+ arterial phase

Cardiac CT transaxial image

communication between the right and left atrium through an ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD type II).

Case Discussion:

Secundum ASD or ostium secundum atrial septal defect

In this case using cardiac CT the size of the ASD could be accurately measured (1,7 cm).

During respiratory inspiration, the negative intrathoracic pressure causes increased blood return into the right side of the heart. The shunting of blood from the left atrium to the right results in volume overloading of the right heart, resulting in an enlarged right ventricle.

Most individuals with an uncorrected secundum ASD don't have significant symptoms through early adulthood. About 70% develop symptoms by the time they are in their 40s. These patients will present with symptoms of dyspnea on exertion (shortness of breath with minimal exercise), congestive heart failure, or cerebrovascular accident(stroke).