A Rare Case Presented with Asthma Symptoms: Scimitar Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Scimitar syndrome is a rare constellation of congenital conditions pertaining to partial anomalous pulmonary venous return to the inferior vena cava, which may associate with variable right lung hypoplasia, right pulmonary artery hypoplasia, pulmonary sequestration together with the presence of aortopulmonary collaterals from the descending aorta towards the right lung. Depending on the severity of the defect, it can present as early as in neonatal period or occasionally later in life. In many cases, there are also other associated cardiac anomalies. Case characteristics: 23-year-old woman with recurrent episodes of breathlessness and wheezing symptoms since her childhood. Computed tomography angiogram revealed right pulmonary veins draining into inferior vena cava through a single vein with a single ostium diagnosed as Scimitar syndrome. Outcome: Successfully managed with surgical correction. Message: Scimitar syndrome should be considered in adulthood with asthma symptoms if it is not under control.