Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026
10:33
Assessment of Right Ventricular Structure and Function in Mouse Model of Pulmonary Artery Constriction by Transthoracic Echocardiography
Published on: February 3, 2014
Papillary fibroelastoma prolapsing into the left ventricular outflow tract: diagnosis using three-dimensional TEE
1Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Marienhospital Herne, Ruhr-University Bochum, Herne, Germany. Thomas.Butz@Marienhospital-Herne.de
Herz
|September 22, 2010
Summary
Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography aided in diagnosing a rare cardiac tumor, papillary fibroelastoma (PFE), by visualizing its unique "sea anemone" appearance and attachment. This imaging approach is crucial for differentiating PFEs from other cardiac masses.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Cardiac tumors are rare, and accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management.
- Papillary fibroelastomas (PFEs) are the most common primary cardiac tumors, often found incidentally.
- Distinguishing PFEs from other cardiac masses like myxomas can be challenging using conventional imaging techniques.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old woman presented with exertional dyspnea and atrial tachycardia.
- Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) revealed a floppy, sea anemone-like tumor on the papillary muscle head.
- The tumor measured 1.9 × 1.4 × 0.9 cm and prolapsed into the left ventricular outflow tract during systole.
Findings:
- Surgical findings confirmed an 8 × 10 mm tumor infiltrating the anterior papillary muscle head.
- Histopathology was consistent with papillary fibroelastoma (PFE).
- 3D-TEE provided crucial details regarding tumor surface, attachment, and prolapse, aiding in diagnosis.
Implications:
- Multimodal imaging, particularly 3D-TEE, is invaluable for characterizing cardiac tumors.
- Advanced echocardiography can help differentiate PFEs from myxomas, guiding surgical planning.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of PFEs is critical for preventing embolic events and improving patient outcomes.
