Additive value of transoesophageal echocardiography in the visualization of carcinoid heart disease

Neth J Med. 1992 Aug;41(1-2):17-21.

Abstract

A 65-yr-old woman with atypical complaints and a tricuspid insufficiency murmur underwent transthoracic echocardiography, which showed right-sided abnormalities, but did not allow clear visualization of the valves. Subsequent transoesophageal imaging, however, raised the suspicion of carcinoid heart disease, because of the typical lesions. The diagnosis was thereafter confirmed by biochemical investigations, scintigraphy and abdominal ultrasound. This case suggests that transoesophageal echocardiography may have additive value in the detection of carcinoid heart disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoid Heart Disease / diagnosis
  • Carcinoid Heart Disease / diagnostic imaging*
  • Echocardiography / methods*
  • Esophagus
  • Female
  • Heart Valve Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Valve Diseases / etiology
  • Humans
  • Tricuspid Valve / diagnostic imaging