Resolution of acquired pulmonary arteriovenous malformations in a patient with total anomalous systemic venous return

Pediatr Cardiol. 2002 Mar-Apr;23(2):210-2. doi: 10.1007/s00246-001-0049-4. Epub 2002 Feb 19.

Abstract

An 11-year-old male with total anomalous systemic venous return had surgical repair except for the hepatic venous return, which drained to the left atrium. He developed progressive cyanosis and fatigue and was diagnosed with large pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) during cardiac catheterization with the use of bubble contrast echocardiography. After surgical redirection of hepatic venous flow to the right heart and pulmonary arterial system, resolution of these PAVMs was demonstrated clinically and by contrast echocardiography. This unique case report demonstrates the development of PAVMs with exclusion of hepatic venous return through the pulmonary vascular bed while pulsatile pulmonary blood flow remains intact. It reinforces the likelihood of the absence of an as yet unidentified hepatic vasoactive substance as the source for development of PAVMs.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arteriovenous Malformations / physiopathology
  • Arteriovenous Malformations / surgery*
  • Child
  • Hepatic Veins / surgery
  • Humans
  • Liver Circulation
  • Male
  • Pulmonary Artery / abnormalities*
  • Pulmonary Circulation*
  • Pulmonary Veins / abnormalities*
  • Pulsatile Flow
  • Regional Blood Flow