Septum spurium

Septum spurium is a term used in anatomy to describe a false septum or partition that is not typically present in the normal anatomy of the organ in which it is found. It is most commonly associated with the heart, specifically the right atrium, but can also occur in other organs such as the liver.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

In the context of the heart, the septum spurium is a muscular ridge that extends from the crista terminalis to the eustachian valve. It is thought to be a remnant of the fetal sinus venosus, which is a large vein that carries blood from the placenta to the fetus's heart.

In the liver, a septum spurium can form as a result of cirrhosis or other liver diseases. It is a fibrous band that divides the liver into separate lobes or segments, which can interfere with the normal flow of blood and bile.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

The presence of a septum spurium in the heart can cause complications during cardiac catheterization, a procedure used to diagnose and treat heart conditions. It can also be a factor in the development of atrial arrhythmias, abnormal heart rhythms that originate in the atria.

In the liver, a septum spurium can lead to complications such as portal hypertension, a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of a septum spurium is typically made through imaging studies such as echocardiography for the heart and computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the liver.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for a septum spurium depends on the organ involved and the symptoms and complications it is causing. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. In others, surgical removal of the septum may be required.

File:Septum spurium.jpg

Septum spurium in the right atrium of the heart. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.