Constrictive Pericarditis with Atrial Septal Defect in Children

Abstract

Two cases (1-year-old and 13-year-old) of constrictive pericarditis (CP) associated with atrial septal defect (ASD) are presented. The correct diagnosis was made preoperatively in both cases. Both patients underwent surgery (pericardiectomy and ASD closure). One patient died soon after the surgery because of low caridac output. The other patient was associated with protein-losing enteropathy and it improved dramatically after the operation. Cardiac catheterization is necessary for the diagnosis of this unusual combination. The cause of this unusual combination is obscure.