[A mobile thrombus simulating a myxoma of the right atrium]

Two-dimensional echocardiography is due to the detailed visualization of the right atrium and adjacent structures an indispensible non-invasive method for the detection pathological masses. In the differential diagnosis of these masses most frequently a mobile thrombus and myxoma are involved. The authors are presenting the case-history of a 71-year-old female patient where during hospitalization on account of a suspect non-Q-wave myocardial infarction in an anteroseptal position echocardiography revealed a pathological mass in the right atrium. From the case-history and results of examinations it was not possible to evaluate unequivocally the nature of the revealed mass. In view of the considerable risk of embolization into the pulmonary artery and coinciding ischaemic heart disease the patient was indicated for surgery and a mobile thrombus was removed. The described case draws attention to the differential diagnosis of right atrial masses and the optimal therapeutic approach.