Horizocardia is a term derived from the Greek words "horizo," meaning "to divide" or "to separate," and "kardia," meaning "heart." It is a rare anatomical condition characterized by the horizontal separation or division of the heart in the thoracic cavity.
In a normal human heart, two atria are present at the top and two ventricles at the bottom, which are connected through a septum. However, in individuals with horizocardia, the septum is absent, resulting in the heart being horizontally divided into two equal halves. This horizontal division creates two separate chambers, each containing an atrium and a ventricle.
Horizocardia is a congenital condition that occurs during embryonic development. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Individuals with horizocardia may experience various symptoms depending on the extent of the division and associated heart defects. These symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, recurrent infections, and abnormal heart rhythms. Diagnosis of horizocardia is typically made through imaging techniques such as echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scan.
Treatment options for horizocardia may include surgical interventions to repair any associated heart defects or abnormalities. The prognosis for individuals with horizocardia depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of any additional heart abnormalities. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is essential to monitor the heart function and manage any complications that may arise.
