Atrial Septal Defect in an Elderly Woman–a Case Report
2011
Atrial Septal Defect in an Elderly Woman: A Case Report
Sample size: 1
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Camelia Diaconu
Primary Institution: Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest
Conclusion
The case highlights that atrial septal defects can remain asymptomatic for decades, even in elderly patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Atrial septal defect is one of the most common congenital anomalies in adults.
- The patient had a 3-year history of atrial fibrillation and a 1-year history of cardiac failure.
- Echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary hypertension and significant heart chamber dilation.
- The patient lived for over 70 years almost asymptomatic despite having a significant heart defect.
Takeaway
This study is about an elderly woman who had a heart problem called an atrial septal defect for many years without knowing it, which is unusual.
Methodology
The patient underwent transthoracic echocardiography to assess heart structure and function.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
The participant was a 75-year-old female.
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