Paucisymptomatic Tetralogy of Fallot diagnosed in a 56-year-old patient: a case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. It is generally diagnosed and surgically repaired early in life, with good overall outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a patient incidentally diagnosed with paucisymptomatic TOF at the age of 56 years old, during investigations for carbon monoxide poisoning. The patient had a history of thyroidectomy, arterial hypertension, and four uncomplicated vaginal deliveries. CONCLUSIONS: This case shows us that some patients with TOF can reach older ages without surgical correction. Late surgical repair should be meticulously decided on a case basis.