Open Access

Infective endocarditis of an asymptomatic congenital aorta-right atrial tunnel: a case report

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Date: 21 February 2020
Journal: European Heart Journal - Case Reports , Volume 4 , Issue 2 , Pages 1 - 5
Authors: E. Onorato , A. Costante , D. Andreini , A. Bartorelli , R. Brown , P. Rudzinski , S. Akleh , R. Mukherjee , R. Thomson

ESC Journals

AbstractBackground

Aorta-right atrial tunnel (ARAT) is a rare congenital anomaly whose aetiology and incidence are unknown. It might represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge requiring a combination of imaging modalities and an integrated teamwork.

Case summary

We report a case of a 23-year-old man with an asymptomatic ARAT complicated by infective endocarditis, diagnosed with non-invasive multimodality imaging, and successfully treated with a catheter-based approach.

Discussion

Aorta-right atrial tunnel closure in asymptomatic patients is still a matter of debate. Considering the risk of serious complications surgical treatment might be recommended soon after diagnosis. In selected cases, catheter-based closure might represent a safe, effective, and less invasive alternative to traditional surgical approach.

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About the contributors

Eustaquio Maria Onorato

Milan (Monzino Cardiology Centre)

Role: Author

Anna Maria Costante

Role: Author

Daniele Andreini

Role: Author