Cardiovascular Diseases & Diagnosis

Background: Pericardial cysts are rare in the pediatric population, with congenital abnormalities being the most common cause. These cysts can vary in size and may lead to symptoms if they exert pressure on surrounding structures. This case report focuses on a huge pericardial cyst found in a pediatric patient.

Case presentation: A 12-year-old boy presented with a history of chronic cough and episodes of syncope. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography angiography revealed a large extracardiac cyst located on the roof of the left atrium, measuring 8.5 cm by 7 cm. All laboratory tests were within normal limits. Given the patient's symptoms, a successful excision of the pericardial cyst was performed.

Conclusion: Surgical management of large pericardial cysts is a safe and effective treatment option.