Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting as Cardiac Tamponade and Pleural Effusion: A Case Report

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, lungs, and other organs. We describe the case of a 36-year-old female patient who first presented with non-specific symptoms before receiving a diagnosis of SLE, along with initial evidence of pleural effusion and cardiac tamponade. Heart tamponade, which is characterized by fluid accumulation in the pericardial space, is an unusual but serious side effect of SLE. Pleural effusion, or an accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity, is a typical hallmark of SLE; however, it rarely manifests as the disease's initial symptom. The early identification and diagnosis of these cardiovascular symptoms of SLE is critical for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. This case report highlights the significance of considering SLE when performing a differential diagnosis for patients who have cardiovascular symptoms, particularly when pleural effusion and cardiac tamponade are present. To increase awareness and knowledge of these uncommon presentations of SLE, more investigations and comprehension of the underlying pathophysiology are required.

An isolated congenital absence of right pulmonary artery associated with coronary and multiple systemic collaterals: A case report and literature review

Unilateral pulmonary artery agenesis (UPAA) is the complete absence of either the right or left pulmonary artery. It is a rare congenital malformation, usually associated with other cardiac defects; however, in some cases, it may occur as an isolated lesion, typically affecting the right side. Patients with isolated right pulmonary artery agenesis are often diagnosed incidentally on chest radiographs in adulthood. Rare cases are associated with multiple systemic collaterals that supply the affected lung. We report the case of a 69-year-old man with the absence of a right pulmonary artery, arterial supply to the right lung from the celiac trunk, and communication of the collaterals with a marginal branch arising from the right coronary artery. UPAA is a rare congenital anomaly that may present with nonspecific symptoms, such as dyspnea and recurrent chest infections. Clinicians should consider UPAA in the differential diagnosis of respiratory symptoms, particularly in adult patients with unexplained symptoms.

Life-threatening bilateral internal carotid artery and unilateral vertebral artery total occlusion presenting with dizziness: a case report

Introduction

It is well known that whereas bilateral occlusion is less common, unilateral internal carotid artery blockage happens regularly. Asymptomatic to fatal ischemic stroke can be the clinical presentation, depending on whether there is adequate collateral blood flow. Internal carotid artery occlusion is often associated with significant neurologic events, both at the time of initial occlusion and during follow-up.

Case presentation

The authors describe a patient's experience of dizziness followed by a fall. The hyperdense position of the basilar artery near its bifurcation was identified following a computed tomography (CT) scan. Furthermore, the pons, midbrain, and medial parts of the right temporal lobe showed numerous small hypodensities suggestive of an ischemic injury. The patient had medical treatment without surgery after it was determined that they had bilateral internal carotid arteries and a blocked right vertebral artery. After taking dual anti-platelet therapy for 5 days, the patient recovered without incident and was discharged from the hospital.

Discussion

In a young patient with bilateral internal carotid arteries occlusion (BICAO), the authors highlighted the significance of prompt diagnosis of stroke-like symptoms, diagnostic possibilities, and treatment options. Options for diagnosis include brain MRI and CT head to check for ischemia and CT angiography (CTA) head and neck to assess for artery obstruction. Options for treatment include severe medical and surgical treatments, such as carotid endarterectomy, stent implantation, or balloon angioplasty, or medical management alone, such as dual anti-platelet medication and thrombolysis.

Conclusion

BICAO is associated with a grave prognosis and significant cerebrovascular complications. High-quality studies are needed to establish the best treatment strategy, considering the complex and individualized nature of the condition.

Combined coronary artery bypass grafting and orthopedic fixation in a patient with multiple comorbidities: a case report

Background

Coronary artery disease is a prevalent cardiovascular condition and the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The management of orthopedic injuries requiring surgical fixation is particularly complex in patients with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension (HTN). Coordinating the sequence, timing, and execution of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and orthopedic fixation requires careful consideration of the patient's overall health, surgical risks, and recovery potential.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male presented with a right distal tibial fracture following a fall. His medical history included HTN, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Kyrle's skin disease. During his hospital stay, he was diagnosed with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Severe multivessel Coronary artery disease was confirmed by catheterization. After interdisciplinary consultation, simultaneous CABG and open reduction and internal fixation of the tibial fracture were performed. He was discharged in good condition and showed positive recovery during a 1-month follow-up.

Discussion

This case highlights the complexities of managing patients with multiple comorbidities who require both cardiac and orthopedic surgeries. This simultaneous approach allows for efficient treatment, leading to a shorter hospital stay and recovery period. This report supports the feasibility and benefits of simultaneous surgery in complex clinical scenarios, although further studies are required to establish broader guidelines.

Conclusion

Our case emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for managing patients with multiple comorbidities who require concurrent surgical intervention. Preoperative planning and speciality coordination ensured optimal outcomes. Further research is needed to develop standardized guidelines for intraoperative care of patients undergoing simultaneous procedures.