Complete embolization of a left atrial myxoma resulting in acute lower extremity ischemia

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Atrial myxoma is the most common primary cardiac tumor, typically presenting with obstructive symptoms, arrhythmias, or embolic events.
• Left atrial myxomas have a predilection for cerebrovascular embolization.
• Peripheral embolization of an entire atrial myxoma is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A patient presented with acute lower extremity ischemia.
• Imaging revealed complete embolization of a left atrial myxoma to the peripheral vasculature.
• This presentation is highly unusual given the typical embolic patterns of atrial myxoma.

Findings:

• The study details a rare case of complete left atrial myxoma embolization.
• The embolized myxoma caused critical limb ischemia in the lower extremity.
• Histopathological confirmation of the cardiac tumor and embolic material was obtained.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for catastrophic peripheral embolization from atrial myxoma, even when rare.
• It emphasizes the importance of considering atrial myxoma in the differential diagnosis of acute limb ischemia, particularly in younger patients.
• Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing such life-threatening embolic events.