Infective endocarditis of an asymptomatic congenital aorta-right atrial tunnel: a case report

Background Aorta-right atrial tunnel (ARAT) is a rare congenital anomaly whose aetiology and incidence are unknown. It might repre-sent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge requiring a combination of imaging modalities and an integrated teamwork. Case summary We report a case of a 23-year-old man with an asymptomatic ARAT complicated by infective endocarditis, diagnosedwith non-invasive multimodality imaging, and successfully treated with a catheter-based approach.. Discussion Aorta-right atrial tunnel closure in asymptomatic patients is still a matter of debate. Considering the risk of serious com-plications surgical treatment might be recommended soon after diagnosis. In selected cases, catheter-based closure mightrepresent a safe, effective, and less invasive alternative to traditional surgical approach