# Pericardial Cyst at the Left Cardiophrenic Angle Mimicking Localized Effusion: A Diagnostic Dilemma

## TL;DR

A rare case of a pericardial cyst in an unusual location was mistaken for a different condition, highlighting the challenges in diagnosing such anomalies.

## Contribution

This paper presents a unique case of a pericardial cyst at the left cardiophrenic angle, emphasizing diagnostic difficulties and management considerations.

## Key findings

- The cyst was located atypically in the left cardiophrenic angle, unlike the usual right location.
- The cyst was large but stable and asymptomatic, managed conservatively with follow-up.
- Imaging techniques like CT and MRI were crucial for accurate diagnosis.

## Abstract

Pericardial cysts are rare, benign, congenital anomalies of the pericardium, usually located within the right cardiophrenic space, often discovered incidentally during imaging performed for unrelated reasons. They usually do not cause symptoms and are detected by chance. Chest X-ray, echocardiography, and chest computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful diagnostic tools. Nevertheless, after safe diagnostic, management options include conservative management with follow-up, percutaneous aspiration of the cyst, and excision of the cyst (direct invasive therapeutic approach should be the option only for patients with overt symptoms and indications). We report a case of a large, stable pericardial cyst in an atypical location in a 64-year-old woman.