Situs inversus viscerum

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Situs Inversus Viscerum Situs inversus viscerum is a rare congenital condition in which the major visceral organs are reversed or mirrored from their normal positions. This condition is also known as situs inversus totalis.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Situs inversus viscerum is a condition that affects the positioning of the internal organs. In a typical human body, the heart is located on the left side of the chest, the stomach and spleen are on the left, and the liver and gallbladder are on the right. In individuals with situs inversus, these organs are mirrored.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of situs inversus is not well understood, but it is believed to be a result of genetic factors. It is often inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both copies of the gene in each cell have mutations.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Situs inversus is often diagnosed incidentally during imaging studies such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI performed for other reasons. It can also be identified through genetic testing if there is a known family history.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

While situs inversus itself may not cause health problems, it can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of other conditions. For example, appendicitis in a person with situs inversus may present with pain on the left side rather than the right.

Associated Conditions[edit | edit source]

Situs inversus can be associated with other conditions, such as Kartagener syndrome, which includes situs inversus, chronic sinusitis, and bronchiectasis.

Management[edit | edit source]

There is no specific treatment for situs inversus itself, as it is a variation of normal anatomy. Management focuses on addressing any associated conditions or complications.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Individuals with situs inversus typically have a normal life expectancy, provided there are no serious associated conditions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

Situs inversus viscerum is a rare disease.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD