Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery (IDPA)

Meenadarsini Dhamothiran, S Aravinda Kumar*

Department of Cardiology, Kauvery Hospitals, Heatcity, Trichy, Tamilnadu

Case:

A 41- year-aged, female, non-diabetic and non-hypertensive. She underwent evaluation for exertional dyspnea, class II. She was found to have mild Pulmonary Regurgitation (PR) and moderate Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery (IDPA) was diagnosed by CT pulmonary angiogram.

Introduction:

Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery (IDPA) is a rare cardiac condition that affects the pulmonary artery, a major blood vessel responsible for carrying oxygen-depleted blood from the heart to the lungs.

Unlike other forms of pulmonary artery dilation, IDPA occurs without any identifiable cause or underlying condition. This makes it an intriguing yet challenging condition for both patients and medical professionals.

In IDPA, the artery expands abnormally, leading to reduced blood flow and increased pressure within the pulmonary system. This can place an excessive burden on the heart, potentially leading to heart failure if left untreated.

The symptoms of IDPA can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some individuals may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain or even fainting spells. Others may be asymptomatic and only discover the condition during routine medical examinations.

Diagnosing IDPA involves eliciting a medical history, physical examination, imaging tests and considering a differential diagnosis of potential etiologies.

It is crucial to rule out other underlying diseases that may contribute to pulmonary artery dilation, such as connective tissue disorders or chronic lung disease.

The treatment for IDPA focuses in managing symptoms, improving heart function and preventing further complications. Medications like diuretics, blood pressure regulators and anticoagulants may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and control blood pressure.

In severe cases, surgical interventions such as balloon angioplasty or stent placement may be necessary to restore proper blood flow.

Living with IDPA requires close monitoring by cardiologists, regular check-ups and adherence to treatment plans.

Lifestyle modifications including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise and avoid tobacco and alcohol, can also contribute to overall well-being.

Images

Cardiac CT images of the patient with Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery

Fig. 1. Cardiac CT images of the patient with Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery.

Conclusion

IDPA is a rare and complicated heart condition that can have serious implications if not properly managed. Increased awareness and understanding of this condition are important to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely interventions.

Ms.-Meenadarsini-Dhamothiran2023-08-01-09:37:49am

Ms. Meenadarsini Dhamothiran y

MBBS Student

Dr-S-Aravindha-kumar2019-03-30%2003:09:22pm

Dr. S. Aravindakumar

Chief Consultant Interventional Cardiologist

Idiopathic Dilated Pulmonary Artery (IDPA)