Auricular infarction

Three cases of distinct auricular infarction, without ventricular involvement, are presented. A fourth case in which the electrocardiograms showed changes apparently typical of auricular damage proved to be one of ruptured, false aneurysm, with hemorrhagic infiltration of the auricles.The first case was interesting because of the unfortunate location of the small infarct; it might have been less serious if it had been located in the ventricle.In three of the four cases there were deviations of the P-Ta segments conforming to that described as typical of auricular damage. In one there was also an apparent disturbance of the A-V conduction pathway; this was most likely due to the ulceration through the interventricular wall.All of the infarcts were located in the right auricle.     

Auricular flutter disclosing cardiac tumor

It is unusual that an atrial flutter reveals a tumor of the atrium. Two cases are reported: one occurred in a patient with a myxoma of the left atrium, the other was found in a patient with a non-hodgkinian lymphoma of the right atrium. The diagnosis was made possible by sonocardiography in both cases. The transesophageal view improves the quality of the images. MRI provided further informations regarding the lymphoma. Modern techniques of cardiac imaging permit the early diagnosis and treatment of cardiac tumors which must be investigated in case of apparently isolated atrial arrhythmias.     

Auricular electrogram in parasternal leads

Parasternal leads using equipment ordinarily available yield satisfactory semi-direct electrograms from the right auricle when it is under excessive strain. The use of a central terminal for the indifferent electrode was found to be more satisfactory than either the left leg or the right arm, as these locations exert a strong influence on the directional character of parasternal auricular deflections. Parasternal leads paired with electrodes on the left arm, in the interscapular space, or with a central terminal may be used interchangeably without altering the characteristic auricular deflections under discussion. By the presence and location of intrinsic auricular deflections information can be gained regarding the degree of enlargement and the position of the right auricle. Five selected cases showing the correlation of auricular electrograms with clinical and roentgenological findings are presented.