Coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta diagnosed during pregnancy.
BACKGROUND
Coarctation of the aorta is an uncommon condition complicating pregnancy. It is often associated with hypertension and usually involves the aortic isthmus.


METHODS
Coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta was found at 21 weeks' gestation after physical findings of hypertension, a holosystolic murmur over the entire left hemithorax, and diminished lower extremity pulses. The diagnosis led to thoracotomy and placement of a graft bypass after an otherwise uneventful pregnancy.


CONCLUSIONS
Unusual sites of coarctation of the aorta complicating pregnancy include the descending thoracic aorta.
Sherer
David M
DM
Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 11203-2098, USA.
D000328:Adult; D001017:Aortic Coarctation / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D019917:Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000209:etiology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011249:Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery