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Spontaneous regression of huge cardiac rhabdomyoma in an infant
G Batmaz1, R Besikçi, G Arslan
1Associated Professor in Pediatric Cardiology Unit, University of Istanbul, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Cerrahpasa Istanbul.
Insights
Rhabdomyomas, common childhood heart tumors, can cause subaortic stenosis. This case showed a large rhabdomyoma that regressed with medical follow-up, suggesting it as a preferred treatment over surgery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Rhabdomyomas are the most frequent primary cardiac tumors in pediatric patients.
- These tumors are frequently associated with genetic disorders like tuberous sclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of a large, asymptomatic cardiac rhabdomyoma in a neonate.
- To discuss the management and natural history of cardiac rhabdomyomas.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a neonate presenting with a cardiac murmur.
- Clinical observation and follow-up of tumor size and patient symptoms.
Main Results:
- A huge rhabdomyoma was identified in a 4-hour-old infant, causing moderate subaortic stenosis.
- The tumor showed spontaneous regression during follow-up.
- The infant remained asymptomatic apart from the murmur.
Conclusions:
- While symptomatic cardiac rhabdomyomas may require surgical intervention, conservative medical follow-up can be a preferred approach for asymptomatic or regressing tumors.
- This case highlights the potential for spontaneous regression of cardiac rhabdomyomas.
Abstract:
Rhabdomyomas are the most common primary cardiac tumors in childhood, and are often associated with tuberous sclerosis. We report a huge rhabdomyoma in an asymptomatic four hour old infant who presented initially with a murmur due to moderate subaortic stenosis. Followup showed regression of the tumour. Although the indications for surgical resection of symptomatic tumors are well established, medical follow-up should be the prefered treatment.
