Authors
Suresh Chandran1, Yoganandh1, Rojith KB1, Issac Christian Moses1, Nedumaran1, Umakanthan K1
1Department of General Medicine, Coimbatore Medical College, Coimbatore
Abstract
Background: Pericardial cysts are uncommon, benign congenital anomalies of the middle mediastinum, though they can also arise secondarily from hydatid disease, tuberculosis, or post-surgery. Most cases are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally. They are typically found at the right pericardiophrenic angle.
Case Presentation: We report the case of a 46-year-old woman who presented with leg swelling and breathlessness. A chest X-ray revealed an egg-shaped calcified mass in the left lower lung zone. Subsequent contrast computed tomography (CT) confirmed a peripherally calcified, hypodense, non-enhancing lesion measuring 5.0 × 3.2 cm in the left ventricle region, consistent with a calcified pericardial cyst. The left-sided location is considered unusual.
Diagnosis and Management: Pericardial cysts are primarily diagnosed using CT or MR imaging. Management options range from observation and percutaneous aspiration to surgical excision, particularly for symptomatic cases, large cysts, or diagnostic uncertainty. Our patient opted for routine follow-up.
Conclusion: This case highlights an unusual presentation of a calcified pericardial cyst located on the left side, an uncommon site for this otherwise benign anomaly. Awareness of varied presentations is important for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.