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Eisenmenger syndrome

Case contributed by J Yeung
Diagnosis possible

Presentation

Atrial septal defect and shortness of breath

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Female
x-ray

Chest X-ray showing cardiomegaly and pruning of pulmonary arteries, compatible with Eisenmenger syndrome.

Case Discussion

Left to right shunts such as atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and patent ductus arteriosus, cause increased pulmonary blood flow. With time, high pulmonary vascular resistance will develop, ultimately causing right to left shunt.

Chest x-ray shows dilation of central pulmonary arteries and pruning of peripheral pulmonary arteries, right ventricular, and atrial enlargement. Left heart would return to normal size.

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