Discontinuity of the arch beyond the origin of the left subclavian artery in an adult: Interruption or coarctation?

Abstract

Congenital aortic anomalies are uncommon causes of secondary hypertension and are seldom suspected in the adult age group. We present a case of aortic interruption unexpectedly diagnosed on autopsy in a 38-year-old male who presented with cardiovascular collapse. Apart from interruption, a finding unique to our case was aneurysmal dilation of the proximal descending aorta just before the obstruction with thrombosis. We also attempt to review the literature for interrupted aortic arch in adults and clarify the nomenclature of interruption versus coarctation.

Keywords

• Adult congenital heart disease
• aortic coarctation
• interrupted aortic arch
• secondary hypertension
• sudden cardiac death