[Primary cardiac sarcoma. Description of a case]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Primary cardiac tumors are exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, previously termed pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma, is an aggressive soft tissue neoplasm.

Observation:

• An 84-year-old male presented with dyspnea attributed to a large pericardial mass.
• Initial chest radiography and computed tomography excluded pulmonary origin, with diagnosis confirmed by cardiac-gated MRI and biopsy.
• The tumor extensively infiltrated the left pericardium and anterior wall.

Findings:

• The patient received conservative medical management due to age, comorbidities, and tumor extent.
• Death occurred six months post-diagnosis due to superior vena cava syndrome from tumor infiltration.
• The cardiac tumor caused myocardial compromise via infiltration and diastolic dysfunction.

Implications:

• This case highlights the diagnostic utility of advanced imaging in rare cardiac tumors.
• Conservative management may be considered in elderly patients with extensive disease.
• Primary cardiac sarcomas represent a significant therapeutic challenge with poor prognosis.