Current concepts of left ventricular pseudoaneurysm: pathophysiology, therapy, and diagnostic imaging methods

Abstract

Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm represents a cardiac rupture which is temporarily confined by pericardium and is amenable to curative surgical treatment. The case described illustrates several atypical features of its presentation and diagnosis, highlighting the importance of maintaining a sufficient clinical index of suspicion for this relatively uncommon, but potentially lethal entity. The use of various diagnostic imaging methods is described, including the first description of magnetic resonance imaging of ventricular pseudoaneurysm. The prospect of medical therapies directed toward the prevention of cardiac rupture, and thus pseudoaneurysm, is discussed in the context of its pathophysiology which involves alterations in the cardiac fibroskeletal support.