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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
07:44
Epicardial Outgrowth Culture Assay and Ex Vivo Assessment of Epicardial-derived Cell Migration
Published on: March 18, 2016
Enteric cyst with epicardial attachment to the left ventricle
Michael F Swartz1, Ola El-Zammar, Steve Landas
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA. swartzm@upstate.edu
Summary
Enteric cysts, rare developmental anomalies, can occur in unusual locations. This case reports an enteric cyst found attached to the left ventricle
Area of Science:
- Embryology
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Enteric cysts arise from abnormal embryonic foregut development.
- These cysts are typically asymptomatic in adults.
- Surgical management of enteric cysts depends on location and symptoms.
Observation:
- A case of an enteric cyst incidentally discovered during coronary artery bypass surgery.
- The cyst was directly attached to the epicardium of the left ventricle.
- This specific location has not been previously reported in medical literature.
Findings:
- Histopathological diagnosis confirmed the lesion as an enteric cyst.
- The cyst's unique epicardial attachment presented a diagnostic and surgical challenge.
- Excision was performed due to the patient's history of breast cancer, necessitating definitive diagnosis.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for enteric cysts to manifest in rare cardiac locations.
- Underscores the importance of thorough histopathological examination for unexpected findings during surgery.
- May prompt consideration of enteric cysts in the differential diagnosis of cardiac masses.
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