Aberrant Shape of the Heart, "Gourd Shaped": A Rare Case of Localized Constrictive Pericarditis.

Abstract

Calcific constrictive pericarditis results commonly from the tubercular lesions in developing countries. The localized calcifications associated with the calcific constrictive pericarditis on its own is rare and the calcification along the atrioventricular groove distorting the heart to a shape of gourd is extremely rare. We present a case to highlight the importance of the early diagnosis of the condition. We have approached the patient with echocardiography and commuted tomography for the diagnosis and hemodynamic evaluation. Early treatment is equally important for this condition, as the calcific constrictive pericarditis is curable with pericardiectomy. However, there lacks a clear consensus for the pericardiectomy in patients with localized calcification and medical therapy can be initiated.