Etymed
dextrocardia
Definition
A congenital condition in which the heart is positioned on the right side of the thoracic cavity instead of the normal left-sided position
Clinical context
A 25-year-old patient presents with chest pain and shortness of breath. During physical examination, the apical pulse is palpated on the right side of the chest instead of the left. Imaging confirms the heart is positioned on the right side of the thoracic cavity. This patient has dextrocardia, a rare congenital condition where the heart is located on the right side instead of the normal left-sided position.
Mnemonic
Dextrocardia = Dextro (right) + cardia (heart) - Remember 'Dextro' as 'Right' side of the chest