Pulmonary vein stenosis mimicking chronic lung disease

Acta Paediatr. 2003 Jul;92(7):857-8.

Abstract

The presence of recurrent respiratory symptoms and right heart enlargement in an ex-premature infant is suggestive of chronic lung disease. Pulmonary vein stenosis is a rare, progressive disorder that produces similar symptoms and signs. A case is reported in which pulmonary vein stenosis was revealed by Doppler echocardiography, and this application is recommended in similar cases. Pulmonary vein stenosis is an extremely rare and progressive disorder, which, if left untreated, is usually fatal. The possibility of this diagnosis may not be considered during clinical examination and may be overlooked during routine echocardiography.

Conclusion: This report describes a patient with pulmonary vein stenosis in whom the diagnosis was delayed as she had symptoms and signs more commonly associated with chronic lung disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lung Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Pulmonary Valve Stenosis / diagnosis*
  • Pulmonary Valve Stenosis / physiopathology*
  • Pulmonary Veins / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pulmonary Veins / physiopathology*
  • Radiography