cardiac4

Question 1

What is total situs inversus?

Answer 1

Total situs inversus is a congenital condition where the major visceral organs are mirrored from their normal positions. For instance, the heart is on the right side instead of the left, and the liver is on the left side instead of the right.

Question 2

What causes total situs inversus?

Answer 2

The exact cause is unknown, but it involves genetic factors and abnormal development during embryogenesis.

Question 3

What is the radiographic appearance of total situs inversus?

Answer 3

Imaging shows the heart on the right side of the chest, the stomach on the right, the liver on the left, and other abdominal organs reversed.

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of total situs inversus?

Answer 3

Many people are asymptomatic and may only discover the condition through imaging for unrelated issues. However, some may experience respiratory infections, sinusitis, and in rare cases, congenital heart defects.

Question 3

What are the complications of total situs inversus?

Answer 3

While often benign, complications can include difficulties in diagnosing and treating certain conditions due to the unusual placement of organs. In rare cases, it can be associated with primary ciliary dyskinesia (Kartagener syndrome).

Question 4

What imaging modalities are used to diagnose total situs inversus?

Answer 4

Chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, and CT scans are commonly used to diagnose and confirm the condition.