chiari network

nicht verwechseln mit: links atriales Band

An uncommon anatomic variant present in the right atrium, a Chiari network refers to a filamentous, weblike structure that results from incomplete resorption of the embryologic sinus venosus.

Epidemiology

Prevalence estimates for the general population vary widely, ranging from 2% - 10% of randomly selected, asymptomatic patients .

Clinical presentation

While thought to be of no innate clinical significance, the presence of a Chiari network is associated with the following :

Pathology

Resorption of the right valve of the embryologic sinus venosus occurs during the normal development of the right atrium, forming the Eustachian valve and the crista terminalis. Incomplete resorption, however, may result in either the persistence of a prominent Eustachian valve or a Chiari network, which shares the same point of anatomical attachment but differs in appearance.

Radiographic features

Echocardiography

A Chiari network may be visualized with both transthoracic (TTE) or transesophageal (TEE) approaches, most often an incidental finding when the former is utilized to investigate an unrelated pathology.

Transthoracic echocardiography

Multiple transthoracic windows and views should be used to adequately assess the right atrium, including the apical 4 chamber view, parasternal right ventricular inflow tract view, and a basally angulated parasternal short axis view. The following grey scale features are characteristic of a Chiari network;

CT

Chiari network can sometimes be seen as a lacelike filling defect but can be challenging due to heterogeneity of contrast enhancement within the right atrium. Identification of its attachment to the inferior vena cava ostium can aid establish a diagnosis.

History and etymology

Originally described in 1897 by the Austrian pathologist Dr. Hans Chiari (1851-1916) .

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