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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
06:29
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
Strongly neovascularized left atrial myxoma
Michael Handke1, Michael Goepfrich, Helmut Keller
1Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Hospital Freiburg, Hugstetter-Strasse 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany. handke@med1.ukl.uni-freiburg.de
Summary
A rare neovascularized myxoma in the left atrium was identified in an elderly woman experiencing transient ischemic attacks. Surgical removal confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting a unique cause of cardiac tumors and potential stroke symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can have various underlying causes.
- Left atrial tumors are uncommon cardiac masses.
- Vascularized tumors require detailed angiographic assessment.
Observation:
- Transesophageal echocardiography revealed a large, highly vascularized left atrial tumor in an 82-year-old female patient presenting with TIAs.
- Coronary angiography identified multiple feeding arteries supplying the tumor, originating from the left circumflex and right coronary arteries.
- Significant contrast enhancement of the tumor was noted during angiography.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination post-excision confirmed the tumor as a neovascularized myxoma.
- The vascular nature of the myxoma was a key diagnostic feature.
- The left atrial location and vascularity were unusual for a myxoma.
Implications:
- Neovascularized myxomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of vascularized cardiac masses.
- Understanding the vascular supply is crucial for surgical planning and management.
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive imaging in evaluating cardiac tumors and their potential systemic effects.
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