CHSU Discovery

Abstract

Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (PAPVR) is a rare congenital
anomaly where one or more pulmonary veins drain into the right atrium or
systemic venous circulation instead of the left atrium, creating a left-to-right
shunt. This can lead to right heart volume overload, pulmonary
hypertension, and right-sided heart failure.¹
PAPVR often remains undiagnosed until adulthood due to vague symptoms
such as exertional dyspnea, fatigue, or atrial arrhythmias.² While cardiac MRI
is the gold standard for diagnosis, CTA may miss the anomaly if not
specifically assessed.³ Early recognition is essential, particularly in adults
presenting with unexplained right heart dilation or pulmonary hypertension.⁴