Subepicardial aneurysm: echocardiographic evaluation and evolution

Echocardiography. 2009 May;26(5):504-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8175.2008.00843.x.

Abstract

Subepicardial aneurysms (SEA) are an infrequent and serious form of subacute cardiac rupture complicating myocardial infarction. An early diagnosis and surgical repair may be life saving. SEA comprise an abrupt interruption of the myocardium, with a narrow neck and thin wall containing only the epicardium. It may progress to fatal cardiorrhexis. We describe the echocardiographic evolution of this type of cardiac rupture and the contribution of contrast-enhanced echocardiography. A possible pathophysiological mechanism is proposed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Echocardiography / methods*
  • Heart Aneurysm / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Myocardial Infarction / etiology*
  • Pericardium / diagnostic imaging*