Ectopia Cordis: 6-Year Survival without Surgical Correction

Fetal Pediatr Pathol. 2021 Oct;40(5):540-542. doi: 10.1080/15513815.2019.1710878. Epub 2020 Jan 9.

Abstract

Ectopia cordis is a complete or partial extrusion of the heart through a ventral defect in the thoracoabdominal wall, either isolated or accompanied by other viscera in instances of pentalogy of Cantrell. Case Report: This six-year-old child has survived with uncorrected ectopia cordis. He is unable to participate in strenuous physical activities and has respiratory limitations. Conclusion: Ectopia cordis most commonly results in stillbirth or neonatal death without surgical treatment. This report highlights the exceptional 6-year survival of a child without surgical correction.

Keywords: Ectopia cordis; child; endurance.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Ectopia Cordis* / surgery
  • Heart Defects, Congenital*
  • Humans
  • Male