Congenital apical left ventricular aneurysm

• Published in: European heart journal cardiovascular imaging 2024-07, Vol.25 (11), p.e264-e264
• Main Authors: Pereira, Marisa, Correia-Costa, Ana, Rebelo, João, Neves, Ana Luísa, Sarmento, João Antunes
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2047-2404; 2047-2412; 2047-2412
• DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeae167

A 17-year-old male was referred for evaluation by Pediatric Cardiology following a pre-sports medical screening, which revealed abnormal ventricular repolarization (negative T wave from V3-V6) on a 12-lead ECG. For 8 years, he has been a competitive football player. There was no relevant personal or family medical history, and he denied any prior cardiovascular symptoms. His cardiovascular physical examination was normal. In the initial assessment, a transthoracic echocardiogram was conducted, revealing an apical aneurysm of the left ventricle (LV) with regional dyskinesia, accompanied by mild mitral regurgitation. The examination also demonstrated globally preserved left ventricular systolic function, with no images suggestive of vegetations or intracardiac thrombi found. For further anatomical and myocardial characterization, a cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was performed. The results revealed a wide apical aneurysm of the LV, predominantly lateral, with thin walls, ridges within the outpouching, and local dyskinesia. No areas of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were found, suggestive of fibrosis, anomalous infiltration, or scar from a previous infarction. After excluding other etiologies, the diagnosis of a congenital ventricular aneurysm was determined. This is a very rare condition (0.12%) with a wide and variable clinical presentation, ranging from benign arrhythmias to sudden death. Various imaging techniques aid in its diagnosis, with CMR being particularly useful for excluding inflammation and cardiomyopathies, identifying LGE, and evaluating left ventricular volumes and function. There is no standard treatment, and controversy surrounds indications for surgical intervention. If a conservative approach is adopted, measures aimed at preventing endocarditis and embolism must be considered.